Adam Williams presents his prediction for the NBA match.
The Detroit Pistons continue their six-game home stretch, having made the most of it so far with back-to-back wins over the Dallas Mavericks (117:102) and Chicago Bulls (127:119). The Atlanta Hawks, meanwhile, are struggling, having last tasted victory on 19 January.
Detroit Pistons
The Detroit Pistons have not been significantly impacted by Jaden Ivey’s injury. Even without him, they have won ten of their last 16 games, thanks to a deep rotation that has kept them competitive. That stretch includes a road victory over the Atlanta Hawks (114:104), where the Pistons led by as many as 22 points at one stage. Cade Cunningham has been in outstanding form and will make his first All-Star appearance this season. In three of his last five outings, he has scored 32 points or more, leading his team with confidence.
Atlanta Hawks
The Atlanta Hawks, on the other hand, will be without their offensive leader, Trae Young, at this year’s All-Star Weekend. Their defensive struggles are nothing new, but their stagnating offence has been an unexpected issue. The Hawks are on an eight-game losing streak and currently rank among the league’s worst teams in offensive efficiency, comparable to Brooklyn Nets and Washington Wizards. The long-term injury to Jalen Johnson, who is out for the season, has been a major blow. He was one of just a handful of players averaging at least 18 points, ten rebounds, and five assists per game, alongside Nikola Jokić, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Domantas Sabonis, and Alperen Şengün. With Clint Capela also sidelined, the Hawks’ frontcourt looks significantly weakened.
Detroit Pistons vs Atlanta Hawks Prediction
When these sides met in Detroit back in November, the spread was set at 2.5 points in favour of the hosts. Now, it has moved slightly to 4.5, but given the trajectory of both teams, that still seems too low. The Pistons have matured significantly, while the Hawks are playing their worst basketball of the season. A comfortable home win is the logical pick.
