Table of Contents
Atlanta Hawks vs Cleveland Cavaliers Betting Preview
The Atlanta Hawks host the Cleveland Cavaliers at State Farm Arena in Friday NBA action. Both teams enter after seeing their two-game win streaks snapped earlier this week. Bettors will weigh Cleveland’s perimeter firepower against Atlanta’s efficient shooting in this Eastern Conference clash.
Line Movement and Odds
- Cavaliers Spread: -5.5 (-111)
- Hawks Spread: +5.5 (-110)
- Cavaliers MoneyLine: -207
- Hawks MoneyLine: +175
- Total: 240.5 (Over -110, Under -110)
Cleveland opened as road favorites, reflecting their strong three-point shooting and Atlanta’s inconsistency without Trae Young. See full NBA odds for market movement.
Matchup Breakdown
Cleveland Cavaliers Outlook
Cleveland fell 110-99 to Toronto, playing without six regulars. Donovan Mitchell leads the team with 29.9 points per game, while Evan Mobley adds 18.7 points and 8.7 rebounds. The Cavaliers rank second in threes made (15.5 per game) and first in attempts (44.6), stretching defenses with perimeter shooting. Nae’Qwan Tomlin has emerged as a rotation piece, scoring 14 points on 6-of-8 shooting against Toronto. With De’Andre Hunter expected back, Cleveland’s depth improves heading into Atlanta.
Atlanta Hawks Outlook
Atlanta lost 132-113 to Washington, ending their two-game streak. Jalen Johnson has stepped up in Trae Young’s absence, averaging 21.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 7 assists. Nickeil Alexander-Walker adds 18.6 points per game, with seven 20+ point outings this season. The Hawks rank sixth in FG% (48.7) and ninth in three-point percentage (37.2), showing efficiency. Their effective FG% of 56.4 ranks fourth, highlighting their offensive balance. Despite the setback, Atlanta has won seven of their last 10.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
The Cavaliers must rely on Mitchell’s scoring and perimeter shooting to exploit Atlanta’s defense. The Hawks need Johnson’s playmaking and Alexander-Walker’s scoring to offset Young’s absence. Rebounding and defensive rotations will be decisive in this Eastern Conference battle.
Injuries / Availability
Cleveland lists Darius Garland (toe), Jarrett Allen (finger), Sam Merrill (hand), Dean Wade (knee), and Craig Porter Jr. (hamstring) as out, while De’Andre Hunter is expected to return. For full player status, check the Cavaliers injury report.
Atlanta lists Trae Young (MCL sprain) as out. See the Hawks injury page for latest updates.
Environment
The game tips at State Farm Arena, where Atlanta has won two straight against Cleveland. The Cavaliers won the first meeting this season 117-109. Expect a competitive atmosphere with both teams aiming to rebound from recent losses.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Cavaliers 122, Hawks 116
- Best Bet: Cavaliers -5.5 (-111)
Cleveland’s three-point volume and Mitchell’s scoring suggest they can cover the spread. - Total: Under 240.5 (-110)
Our model projects 238 points, leaning under given both teams’ defensive adjustments.
Cleveland’s perimeter shooting and Mitchell’s leadership should secure the win, while Atlanta’s efficiency keeps it close. Expect a competitive contest trending under the total.
Handicappers and Service Plays
Boost your NBA betting confidence by exploring expert breakdowns in our Best Handicappers, tracking Eastern Conference trends on the Leaderboard, and reviewing premium basketball picks in the Buy Picks section for sharper insights.


