Sacramento Kings vs Atlanta Hawks Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 22/01/2024, 06:30  by Devesh Jaganath | Modified on 22/01/2024 at 14:00 in NBA Prediction

The Atlanta Hawks travel to Golden 1 Center to take on the Sacramento Kings in the NBA on Monday night. The hosts are 23-18 and eighth in the Western Conference, while the visitors are 18-24 and tenth in the Eastern Conference. 

The Atlanta Hawks had been gaining momentum with a three-game winning streak, but their progress was halted by the formidable Cavaliers, who handed them a 116-95 defeat on Saturday. Dejounte Murray took charge for the Hawks, contributing 24 points, nine rebounds, and five assists, while Jalen Johnson added 20 points along with seven rebounds and four assists. Presently, Atlanta ranks as the fifth-highest scoring team in the NBA, averaging 120 points per game, while Sacramento's defense is positioned 21st in points allowed per game at 118. However, on the defensive front, the Hawks are struggling, conceding an average of 122.5 points per game, marking them as the fourth-worst in the league. The Hawks faced a setback when Trae Young left the game against the Cavaliers due to an elbow to the face, and his availability for Monday's matchup in Sacramento is uncertain. Adding to the injury list, De'Andre Hunter (knee) and Mouhamed Gueye (back) are both sidelined.

Meanwhile, the Sacramento Kings find themselves in a slump, having lost five of their last seven games overall. They are looking to break a four-game losing streak after coming up short against the Pacers in a 126-121 defeat on Thursday. Kevin Huerter took charge for the Kings, leading the team with an impressive 31 points on 11-of-17 shooting, while Keegan Murray contributed 27 points along with nine rebounds. Sacramento currently stands as the eighth-ranked scoring team in the league, averaging 118.2 points per game. On the defensive end, the Kings allow an average of 118 points per game, positioning them at 21st in the league. Notably, the Kings face challenges in defending the three-point line, ranking as the second-worst 3-point defensive team with opponents making 39.2% from behind the arc. Fortunately, Sacramento enters this match without any injury absentees.