ESPN’s Wednesday NBA doubleheader begins with a clash between two young teams that have vastly different outlooks–the Atlanta Hawks and New Orleans Pelicans.
The Hawks (-5.5) are fresh off a conference finals appearance and have carried their postseason momentum into the new season with a 2-1 start. Almost every important Hawk from the playoff run is back and performing well, highlighted by Trae Young, who could be in play for league MVP by the season’s end (+2000 at Tipico Sportsbook).
The New Orleans Pelicans (+180 ML) have limped to a 1-3 record as they try and find their footing without injured franchise cornerstone, Zion Williamson. Yet, the Pels earned their first win of the season Monday, defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves, 107-98. That could provide a building block going forward.