Toronto Raptors vs Atlanta Hawks Picks and Predictions January 3rd 2026

Last Updated on

Atlanta Hawks vs Toronto Raptors Betting Preview

Atlanta opens a two-game road set in Toronto looking to flip recent results in the season series. The Raptors have won four straight against the Hawks dating back to last season, including two wins in Atlanta earlier this year. The Hawks arrive with momentum after back-to-back wins, capped by a dominant road victory at Madison Square Garden.

Jalen Johnson continues to drive Atlanta’s identity. He posted his seventh triple-double of the season Friday and has become the focal point on both ends. Atlanta’s defense has tightened during this stretch, and their rebounding effort has fueled transition scoring even without Trae Young in the lineup.

Toronto returns home after two days off and a frustrating loss to Denver. The Raptors struggled shooting the ball, but Scottie Barnes still filled the stat sheet and remains the engine of their offense. With RJ Barrett back, Toronto’s pace and spacing improve, though Jakob Poeltl remains sidelined.

For full slate context, visit the NBA previews hub.

sas logo

Every Sharp Move, Every Capper, All Sports

Track professional picks, line steam, and market swings in real time.

Line Movement and Odds

Toronto opened -3.5 and moved to -4.5 as early money backed the home side. Atlanta sits at +4.5, with bettors weighing the Hawks’ improved defense against their injury concerns.

The total opened at 228 and has nudged down to 226.5. Market movement reflects Atlanta’s recent defensive improvement and Toronto’s inconsistent half-court efficiency. Moneyline pricing favors the Raptors, but the handle is more evenly split than the spread.

Follow live updates on the NBA odds board.

Basketball
2026-01-04 20:10
Off Board
Oklahoma City Thunder
Phoenix Suns
Basketball
2026-01-04 21:10
Off Board
Milwaukee Bucks
Sacramento Kings
Basketball
2026-01-04 21:42
Off Board
Memphis Grizzlies
Los Angeles Lakers

Matchup Breakdown

Atlanta’s edge is versatility. Johnson initiates offense, rebounds at a high level, and defends multiple positions. Without Trae Young, the Hawks have leaned into ball movement and defensive pressure, holding opponents below 40 percent shooting in recent games.

Toronto’s advantage is size and physicality. Barnes controls the glass and pushes tempo, while Barrett’s return adds downhill scoring. The Raptors struggle when their shots do not fall, but they remain tough at home when they win the rebounding battle.

For additional betting insight, review the latest NBA picks.

Injuries and Conditions

Atlanta Hawks

  • Trae Young, quadriceps, questionable
  • De’Andre Hunter, knee, probable

See full Atlanta Hawks injury report.

Toronto Raptors

  • Jakob Poeltl, lower back, out
  • RJ Barrett, knee management, probable

See full Toronto Raptors injury report.

This game is indoors. No weather impact.

Best Bets and Prediction

Toronto’s home-court edge and rebounding advantage matter, but Atlanta’s defensive surge and improved ball movement make this closer than recent meetings. If Young remains out, the Hawks still have enough balance to stay inside the number.

Projected Score: Raptors 114, Hawks 111
Best Bet: Hawks +4.5
Secondary Lean: Under 226.5

ScoresAndStats Handicappers and Picks

Track top performers on the handicapper leaderboard.
Access premium selections through service plays.
Explore more angles in the free NBA picks section.
Sharpen strategy with the Bettors Handbook.

Yesterday
Sas Insider
$481
2. Dan Jones
$400
3. Diego Garcia
$200
4. Kyle Parker
$200
5. Sports Hub – FREE PICKS
$200
This Week
Sas Insider
$1,632
2. Sports Hub – FREE PICKS
$1,300
3. Wise Guy Plays
$690
4. Dan Jones
$535
5. Sports Central
$500
This Month
Coach Rick
$2,237
2. Wise Guy Plays
$1,716
3. Logan Wilson
$1,142
4. Bobby Conn
$1,038
5. Seth Cohen
$863