The Atlanta Hawks welcome the Houston Rockets to State Farm Arena Wednesday. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET. Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook’s lines around the Rockets vs. Hawks odds, and our expert NBA picks and predictions.
The Hawks come into this game with high expectations on the season after trading for former Spurs star G Dejounte Murray in the offseason. The combination of Murray and G Trae Young is expected to be one of the best in the NBA. F John Collins and C Clint Capela are also players to keep an eye on.
The Rockets added F Jabari Smith Jr. from Auburn with the 3rd-overall selection in the 2022 NBA Draft. Smith and the No. 2 overall pick from the 2021 NBA Draft, G Jalen Green, will spearhead Houston’s attack. The Rockets traded away C Christian Wood this offseason, and his absence will be notable.
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Rockets at Hawks odds
Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:12 p.m. ET.
- Moneyline (ML): Rockets +330 (bet $100 to win $330) | Hawks -450 (bet $450 to win $100)
- Against the spread (ATS): Rockets +9.5 (-108) | Hawks -9.5 (-112)
- Over/Under (O/U): 234.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)
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Rockets at Hawks key injuries
Rockets
- G Jae’Sean Tate (ankle) out
- G TyTy Washington (knee) out
Hawks
- F Bogdan Bogdanovic (knee) out
For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.
Rockets at Hawks picks and predictions
Prediction
Hawks 124, Rockets 114
Moneyline
PASS.
The Hawks are the far better side here, but I wouldn’t bet them outright at -450 as the value just isn’t there. Similarly, I wouldn’t bet on the upset from Houston on the road with a young roster.
Against the spread
BET HAWKS -9.5 (-112).
The Hawks added a key defensive-minded guard while the Rockets added more young talent. While Smith may eventually be a stud, it is likely he’ll be inefficient early in the season and Green hasn’t proved much yet this preseason or as a rookie to assume he’ll come out and dominate.
Atlanta was 25-19 ATS as the home team last season and should continue that success. With Murray picking up for Young’s defensive flaws, expect a much sharper Atlanta team. The Hawks’ experience should prove enough to help them cover as Houston is projected to be one of the worst teams in the Western Conference.
Over/Under
LEAN OVER 234.5 (-108).
As noted, Green and the Rockets weren’t efficient last season, but they did play at an ultra-high pace. Atlanta was 23-21 O/U at home last season while Houston had the 5th-highest Over % in the league (55.6%).
The Hawks were No. 2 in offensive rating last season while the Rockets were the league’s worst defensive team. With Young’s pace matched by the play of young Houston stars, I expect points to come in bunches.
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