The Philadelphia 76ers will get their fourth and final crack at the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday. Philly, 0-3 in the season series, looks to avoid a sweep. To do that, they’ll have to overcome the absence of Paul Geore (suspension) and Joel Embiid (oblique). VJ Edgecombe is doubtful after taking a hard fall on Tuesday against the San Antonio Spurs.
Meanwhile, the Hawks, winners of their last five games, look to complete their dominance over the Tyrese Maxey-led team. The hosts might miss the stellar play of Jonathan Kuminga, who is questionable due to left knee inflammation.
Philadelphia 76ers vs Atlanta Hawks Odds
Moneyline: 76ers (+200) vs. Hawks (-250)
Odds: 76ers (+6.5 -111) vs. Hawks (-6.5 -109)
Total (O/U): 76ers (o233.5 -110) vs. Hawks (u233.5 -110)
Editor’s Note: The odds could change closer to the game.
Philadelphia 76ers vs Atlanta Hawks Prediction and Preview
Prediction
Philly has given Atlanta three closely fought games before eventually losing. In each of those games, the 76ers lost the rebounding battle and the points in the paint contest. Without Embiid, Sixers coach Nick Nurse needs Adem Bona, Andre Drummond and Dominick Barlow to control the paint.
Somebody else must step up to help Tyrese Maxey carry the offense. With VJ Edgecombe likely sitting out, the team could use a spark from Quentin Grimes and Kelly Oubre Jr.
On the other hand, the Hawks could not run away from the 76ers due to their error-prone ways. Atlanta often lost its rhythm when it could not limit its turnovers.
In the last meeting between the two teams, Embiid sat out, helping the Hawks dominate the interior production, 54-38. Atlanta might want to keep that strategy and attack the paint without the former MVP anchoring Philly’s defense.
Preview
The streaking Hawks have had the 76ers’ numbers this season. With Philly limping, expect the home team to roll to a comfortable win that blows past the -6.5 spread.
Philadelphia 76ers vs Atlanta Hawks Betting Tips
Tyrese Maxey is averaging 26.3 points per game in March. With Atlanta’s defense expected to focus on him, the All-Star guard is not likely to top his 31.5 (O/U) points prop.
Atlanta’s All-Star forward Jalen Johnson has struggled a little this month. He is averaging 14.0 points, 8.5 assists and 6.5 rebounds per game. Bet on Johnson not hitting his 41.5 (O/U) props for points, rebounds and assists combined.
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