The Detroit Pistons face off against the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. Both teams have struggled with consistency this season, but the matchup presents an intriguing battle between a young, rebuilding Pistons squad and an experienced Hawks team aiming for a playoff push. This game offers some interesting betting opportunities, with both teams looking to gain momentum.

Detroit Pistons Overview

The Pistons have endured a tough season, plagued by injuries and inexperience. However, they have shown glimpses of promise with their young core, featuring Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey, and Jalen Duren. Detroit’s focus is on development, but they’ve been competitive in several games, often keeping contests closer than expected. Despite their struggles, they remain a team that can surprise on any given night, especially against teams with defensive lapses like the Hawks.

Key Players to Watch:

• Cade Cunningham – The former No. 1 pick continues to be Detroit’s offensive leader, providing playmaking and scoring. He’ll be crucial in exploiting Atlanta’s perimeter defense.

• Jaden Ivey – Ivey’s speed and explosiveness make him a potential game-changer in transition and against the Hawks’ shaky defense.

• Jalen Duren – Duren's rebounding and rim protection will be essential against Atlanta's frontcourt.

Pistons Betting Trends:

• Detroit is 4-6 against the spread (ATS) in their last 10 games.

• The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Detroit's last 8 games.

• Detroit has covered the spread in 3 of their last 5 matchups against Atlanta.

Atlanta Hawks Overview

The Hawks, led by All-Star Trae Young, have had an up-and-down season. Their offensive firepower is undeniable, but defensive inconsistency has been their Achilles' heel. Atlanta will look to use their experience and scoring depth to take advantage of a struggling Pistons defense. With players like Dejounte Murray and Bogdan Bogdanović providing additional offensive threats, the Hawks have the firepower to outscore their opponents.

Key Players to Watch:

• Trae Young – Averaging over 25 points and 10 assists per game, Young remains the engine of the Hawks’ offense and will look to exploit Detroit's defense.

• Dejounte Murray – A two-way threat, Murray's defensive effort against Cunningham will be key to the Hawks’ success.

• Clint Capela – Capela's ability to dominate the boards and protect the rim will be crucial against Detroit's young big men.

Hawks Betting Trends:

• Atlanta is 5-5 ATS in their last 10 games.

• The total has gone OVER in 7 of Atlanta’s last 9 home games.

• The Hawks have won 6 of their last 7 home games against Detroit.

Matchup Analysis

Offense:

• The Hawks have the clear advantage in offensive firepower, ranking in the top 10 in points per game.

• Detroit struggles offensively, ranking near the bottom in scoring efficiency. However, they have improved their ball movement recently.

Defense:

• Both teams have defensive struggles, with Detroit ranking last in defensive efficiency, while Atlanta sits in the lower half of the league.

• The Hawks rely heavily on their offense to win games, often allowing teams to score freely.

Recent Head-to-Head Meetings:

• The Hawks have dominated the recent series, winning 4 of the last 5 matchups.

• The Pistons have kept games close but have struggled to close out against Atlanta's offensive depth.

Picks and Predictions

Spread Pick:

• Pick: Atlanta Hawks -8.5

  • The Hawks' superior offensive capabilities and home-court advantage make them the likely choice to cover the spread against a struggling Pistons squad.

Over/Under Prediction:

• Pick: Over 229.5 total points

  • Both teams struggle defensively, and with the Hawks' offensive pace, this game could turn into a high-scoring affair.

Prop Bet Suggestions:

1. Trae Young Over 10.5 Assists – Young thrives against weaker defensive teams like Detroit, and he should have plenty of opportunities to rack up assists.

2. Cade Cunningham Over 22.5 Points – Cunningham will be the focal point for the Pistons and should take advantage of Atlanta’s weak perimeter defense.

3. Clint Capela Over 12.5 Rebounds – With Detroit struggling to box out consistently, Capela should dominate the boards.

Final Score Prediction

Atlanta Hawks 123 – Detroit Pistons 110

The Hawks' offensive prowess, coupled with Detroit's defensive inefficiencies, suggests that Atlanta will pull away in the second half. Expect Young and Murray to have big games, while Detroit's youth movement will have moments of promise but ultimately fall short.