Houston Rockets vs Atlanta Hawks Prediction and Betting Tips | Jan. 11, 2025
NBA fans are in for a spectacle as two dynamic teams face off in Saturday's Houston Rockets versus Atlanta Hawks matchup. Although the teams occupy different standings in their respective conferences, this game promises to feature electrifying players such as Trae Young, Amen Thompson, Alperen Sengun and No. 1 pick Zaccharie Risacher.
This game was initially part of a seven-game slate, but two matchups involving Los Angeles teams — the Lakers hosting the San Antonio Spurs and the Clippers facing the Charlotte Hornets — have been postponed due to raging wildfires.
Here’s a detailed preview of the Houston Rockets vs Atlanta Hawks game, tipping off at 3:00 p.m. ET at State Farm Arena in Atlanta.
Houston Rockets vs Atlanta Hawks Prediction, Preview and Odds
Moneyline: Rockets (-198) vs Hawks (-164)
Spread: Rockets -4.5 (-110) vs Hawks +4.5 (-110)
Total (O/U): Rockets o233.5 (-109) vs Hawks u233.5 (-110)
Editor's note: The odds could change close to the game. The odds listed were as per available information at the time of writing.
Houston Rockets vs Atlanta Hawks preview
The Houston Rockets have been one of the season’s standout surprises, entering this game on a three-game winning streak. In the competitive Western Conference, they sit in second place, holding a 1.5-game lead over the third-place Memphis Grizzlies.
Winning seven of their last 10 games, the Rockets have also posted an impressive 12-5 record on the road. Their defensive prowess is the key to their success, boasting a 107.0 defensive rating, which ranks third in the NBA behind the OKC Thunder and Orlando Magic.
Meanwhile, the Atlanta Hawks have shown flashes of brilliance but struggle with consistency. When in rhythm, they are a formidable team capable of upsetting top opponents. Trae Young, the Hawks’ dynamic leader, averages 22.5 points, 12.1 assists and 3.4 rebounds this season.
Despite their 19-19 record, which places them ninth in the Eastern Conference, the Hawks have notable victories, including two against the New York Knicks, two over the Cleveland Cavaliers and one against the Boston Celtics — proving they can rise to the occasion against elite teams.
Houston Rockets vs Atlanta Hawks predicted starting lineups
Trae Young is probable with right Achilles tendinitis, Bogdan Bogdanovic is questionable due to right knee inflammation and Jalen Johnson is out with right shoulder inflammation.
For the Rockets, Tari Eason is questionable due to injury management and Jabari Smith Jr. is out with a hand injury.
Rockets
G - Fred VanVleet | G - Jalen Green | F - Dillon Brooks | F - Amen Thompson | C - Alperen Sengun
Hawks
G - Trae Young | G - Dyson Daniels | F - Vit Krejci | F - Zaccharie Risacher | C - Clint Capela
Editor's note: These are the predicted lineups and could change based on the availability of players.
Houston Rockets vs Atlanta Hawks betting props
- Trae Young to score over 23.5 points is -117 on Caesars. Expect him to clear this.
- Fred VanVleet to score over 16.5 points is -121 on Caesars. Expect him to clear this
Houston Rockets vs Atlanta Hawks prediction
The Rockets’ suffocating defense is likely to overwhelm the Hawks, especially with Jalen Johnson sidelined. Trae Young’s offensive brilliance may not be enough to compensate. Expect the Rockets to cover the spread and cruise to a convincing double-digit victory.