Game Overview

The Atlanta Hawks (18-16) travel to Los Angeles to take on the Lakers (18-14) in a Western Conference showdown at the Crypto.com Arena on January 3, 2025. Atlanta, coming off a tough loss to Denver, will look to bounce back against a Lakers team that recently lost to the Cleveland Cavaliers. The game is set to tip off at 8:30 PM ET and will be broadcast on NBA TV.

Betting Odds

Team Analysis

Atlanta Hawks

The Hawks are led by Trae Young, who averages 22.3 points and 12.0 assists per game. Atlanta’s offense has been clicking recently, averaging 130.6 points per game over their last five outings. However, their defense has been inconsistent, allowing 119.6 points per game during the same stretch.

Atlanta’s injury concerns are notable, with key players like Trae Young, Jalen Johnson, and Bogdan Bogdanovic listed as game-time decisions. If these players suit up, the Hawks’ potent offense could exploit a Lakers team missing some key defensive anchors.

Los Angeles Lakers

The Lakers will be without Anthony Davis (26.1 PPG, 11.6 RPG), who has been ruled out due to injury. LeBron James, averaging 25.8 points and 8.9 assists, will shoulder a heavier load. While the Lakers are strong at home, their performance without Davis has been inconsistent, especially on the defensive end.

Additionally, injuries to Gabe Vincent and Christian Wood further thin the Lakers’ rotation, potentially giving the Hawks an edge in depth.

Recent Performance

Atlanta Hawks

• 1/1/25: Lost to Denver 139-120
• 12/29/24: Defeated Toronto 136-107
• 12/28/24: Defeated Miami 120-110
• 12/26/24: Defeated Chicago 141-133
• 12/23/24: Defeated Minnesota 117-104

Los Angeles Lakers

• 12/31/24: Lost to Cleveland 122-110
• 12/28/24: Defeated Sacramento 132-122
• 12/25/24: Defeated Golden State 115-113
• 12/23/24: Lost to Detroit 117-114
• 12/21/24: Defeated Sacramento 103-99

Head-to-Head Matchup

The Hawks lead the season series 1-0 after a thrilling 134-132 overtime victory on December 6, 2024. In that game, Trae Young recorded a double-double with 28 points and 12 assists, while the Lakers struggled to contain Atlanta’s perimeter shooting.

Betting Trends

• The Hawks are 5-0 ATS in their last five games.
• The Lakers are 1-3 ATS in their last four home games.
• The over has hit in four of Atlanta’s last five games.
• The under has hit in three of Los Angeles’ last five games.

Prediction