Atlanta Hawks vs Charlotte Hornets Betting Preview
The Atlanta Hawks host the Charlotte Hornets at State Farm Arena in Sunday NBA action. Atlanta enters at 10-7 after a strong win over New Orleans, while Charlotte sits at 4-12 on a five-game skid. Bettors will weigh the Hawks’ depth without Trae Young against the Hornets’ injury woes and LaMelo Ball’s managed minutes.
Line Movement and Odds
- Hawks Spread: -7.0 (-112)
- Hornets Spread: +7.0 (-110)
- Hawks MoneyLine: -267
- Hornets MoneyLine: +220
- Total: 233.0 (Over -110, Under -110)
Atlanta opened as clear home favorites, reflecting Charlotte’s struggles and the Hawks’ balanced scoring. See full NBA odds for market movement.
Matchup Breakdown
Charlotte Hornets Outlook
Kon Knueppel scored 26 points against the Clippers, setting an NBA rookie record with 50 threes in 16 games. Brandon Miller returned from injury with 21 points, while Miles Bridges continues to lead with 22.1 points per game. LaMelo Ball averages 21.2 points and 9.3 assists but is being carefully managed after an ankle injury. Charlotte ranks top-10 in three-pointers made and free throw percentage, but injuries to Ryan Kalkbrenner, Pat Connaughton, and others limit their depth.
Atlanta Hawks Outlook
Kristaps Porzingis scored a season-high 30 points against New Orleans, while Jalen Johnson added 18 points, 11 rebounds, and nine assists. Nickeil Alexander-Walker averages 19.1 points, and Vit Krejci hit seven threes off the bench. Atlanta ranks seventh in field goal percentage (48.9%) and ninth in three-point shooting (37.5%). Their defense holds opponents to 34.1% from deep, and their ball movement (30.3 assists per game) ranks third in the league. The Hawks are 8-4 without Trae Young, showing resilience and depth.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
The Hornets must rely on Knueppel’s perimeter shooting and Ball’s playmaking to stay close. The Hawks need Porzingis and Johnson to continue their strong form while limiting Charlotte’s three-point volume. Bench scoring and rebounding will be decisive in this Southeast Division clash.
Injuries / Availability
Atlanta lists Onyeka Okongwu (ankle) questionable, with Kristaps Porzingis often resting on back-to-backs. For full player status, check the Hawks injury report.
Charlotte lists Ryan Kalkbrenner (ankle), Pat Connaughton (calf), Josh Green (shoulder), Tre Mann (ankle), and Grant Williams (knee) out, with LaMelo Ball’s minutes being managed. See the Hornets injury page for latest updates.
Environment
The game tips at State Farm Arena, where Atlanta is 6-3 at home. Charlotte is 2-7 on the road, continuing to struggle away from Spectrum Center. Expect Atlanta’s offense to set the tone, while Charlotte leans on its rookies to keep pace.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Hawks 120, Hornets 113
- Best Bet: Hornets +7.0 (-110)
Charlotte’s three-point shooting and Ball’s playmaking could keep the game closer than expected. - Total: Over 233.0 (-110)
Our model projects 233 points, leaning over given both teams’ offensive strengths and Charlotte’s defensive lapses.
Atlanta’s depth and home-court advantage should secure the win, but Charlotte’s perimeter shooting keeps it competitive. Expect a high-scoring game trending over the total.
Handicappers and Service Plays
Strengthen your NBA betting approach by exploring expert breakdowns in our Best Handicappers, tracking divisional trends on the Leaderboard, and reviewing premium basketball picks in the Buy Picks section for added confidence.


