Atlanta Hawks (19-19) vs Phoenix Suns (19-19)
Game Info: Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at 7:30 pm (State Farm Arena)
Betting Odds: Atlanta Hawks +2.5 -- Over/Under: 235.5 Click Here for the Latest Odds
Where to Watch: NBA League Pass
The Atlanta Hawks (19-19) are set to host the Phoenix Suns (19-19) on January 14, 2025, at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. Both teams share identical records and are positioned 10th in their respective conferences, making this matchup pivotal for their playoff aspirations.
The Suns enter this game on a three-game winning streak, including a recent 120-113 victory over the Charlotte Hornets. Devin Booker has been instrumental during this stretch, averaging over 30 points in three of the last four games. Phoenix's offense ranks 13th in the league, showcasing efficiency with a 10th-place ranking in field goal percentage and sixth in three-point shooting. However, their defense stands at 19th in points allowed, indicating potential vulnerabilities.
Conversely, the Hawks have faced challenges, losing four of their last five games. Despite these setbacks, Trae Young continues to lead the team, contributing significantly in scoring and assists. Atlanta's offense is potent, ranking sixth in the league with an average of 117.2 points per game. However, their defense has struggled, conceding 119.8 points per game, the third-worst in the NBA.
Devin Booker Over 25.5 Points
Devin Booker has been a pivotal offensive force for the Phoenix Suns as of late. He’s averaging 24.7 points per game, ranking 14th in the league. In addition to his scoring, Booker contributes 6.9 assists and 3.9 rebounds per game, with a field goal percentage of 43.5%.
We saw Booker have a massive game against the Charlotte Hornets scoring 39 points, including six 3-pointers on 1/7. He followed that up with a 31-point game against the Utah Jazz and in his last game he put up 30 points in a rematch against the Charlotte Hornets. Devin Booker currently has the hot hand on this Phoenix Suns team and now he gets a favorable matchup going against the Atlanta Hawks who have been terrible guarding the perimeter. I don't see him slowing down in this one.
Trae Young Over 3.5 Three Pointers
Trae Young has been a central figure in the Atlanta Hawks' offense this season. As of January 13, 2025, he has made 103 three-pointers, averaging approximately 2.9 successful shots from beyond the arc per game. His three-point shooting percentage stands at 34.0%, based on 8.6 attempts per game. In addition to his perimeter shooting, Young contributes 22.5 points and 12.1 assists per game, with a field goal percentage of 40.1%.
Trae Young is coming off back-to-back games where he's failed to score 3 or more three-pointers but I like him to bounce back in this spot against the Suns. Phoenix is giving up 13.7 three-pointers per game to opposing teams which is well above the league average. After a long road trip the Hawks return back home where they play their best ball and I expect Trae Young to have a good game.
Tyrus Jones Over 4.5 Assists
Tyus Jones has been a reliable playmaker for the Phoenix Suns this season. He’s averaging 6.0 assists per game, ranking 20th in the league. In addition to his assists, Jones contributes 11.9 points and 2.6 rebounds per game, with a field goal percentage of 47.9%. Notably, on December 13, 2024, he recorded a double-double with 19 points and 11 assists in a game against the Utah Jazz.
When you look at Tyrus Jones's numbers he doesn't put up many points but he sure does dish the rock. We've seen him clear this line in back-to-back games with no problem. When you have guys like Devin Booker and Kevin Durant to pass to it's not difficult to log assist. He also has a favorable matchup in this game going up against the Atlanta Hawks who give up 28.8 assists per game to opposing teams which is the third most in the league.
Brad’s Pick See Above
AUTHOR: Brad Francis
