Washington Wizards vs Atlanta Hawks Betting Preview: Revenge and Seeding On the Line as Wizards and Hawks Meet

Tonight’s Wizards vs Hawks matchup features two teams that have been part of a fascinating finish in the NBA’s Eastern Conference. Both of these teams can move up or down with just a few games to go, and the Wizards still need one win, or a Chicago loss, to clinch their spot in the play-in tournament. Adding to the flavor of this one is that these teams just met on Monday with Atlanta winning by just a point. Both of these teams have been very profitable in their respective situations this evening.

Washington Wizards (32-37) vs Atlanta Hawks (38-31), ESPN, 7:00 PM ET

Wizards Almost Into Playoff Field

Thanks to a very strong second half the Wizards have almost punched their ticket for the playoffs in the Eastern Conference. One more win will do it, and they have to like their chances of getting some revenge against the Hawks tonight.

Top scorer Bradley Beal missed the one-point loss to Atlanta the other day. Without him, the 28 points, 21 assists and 13 rebounds from Russell Westbrook just weren’t enough to get them over the top. They did put forth a great effort late, outscoring the Hawks by 16 in the fourth quarter in the close loss.

The Washington stars deserve the attention they get, but watching this team down the stretch there is more depth than expected. Rui Hachimura is becoming a more reliable third scoring option and the veteran duo of Ish Smith and Robin Lopez have picked up their games over the last month. Washington is not going to be an easy out in the playoffs.

Washington is the consensus play and has been a great bet on the road, where they are 21-13 ATS.

Atlanta Healthier Than They Have Been in a While

Forward DeAndre Hunter is back on the court and that is huge for the Hawks. He is not their best player, but he is definitely their most versatile. These last few games are going to be critical for getting him ready for the playoffs.

That said, don’t forget about star guard Trae Young. Young scored 36 points against the Wizards. He needed just 22 shots to get there and made all 13 of his free throws. He can be turnover prone but as he improves his shot selection the ceiling of this team gets a lot higher.

Big man Clint Capela was a monster inside with 22 rebounds and four blocks. He does not get enough credit for his role on the team and he should have another big game tonight. Washington has plodding bigs that can’t keep up with his quickness.

Atlanta has been crushing it as home favorites this season. They are 16-4 SU and 14-16 ATS.

Washington Wizards vs. Atlanta Hawks Matchup: Picks, Odds, Stats and More