The race for playoff spots in the Eastern Conference is incredibly tight, and there is a match-up on Friday, February 5 that could potentially shake things up even more. The Atlanta Hawks hold the #3 spot at the moment, but are just two games up on the Indiana Pacers in 8th. This two will hook up at Phillips Arena on Friday, with tip-off set for 7 PM EST on ESPN. To check up on both of these teams odds as they gear up to play and score a win for a playoff spot make sure to check out our online sportsbook NBA odds page clicking here.
How to bet Indiana Pacers Vs Atlanta Hawks Game and TV Information
When: Friday, February 5, 7 PM EST
Where: Phillips Arena, Atlanta, Georgia
TV: ESPN
Radio: 92,9 The Game
Stream Option: WatchESPN
Why bet on the Indiana Pacers
The Pacers (25-23) are clinging to the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference for dear life, but they also know that a couple of wins could move them up into the middle of the leading pack. They will have a chance to get those wins with a couple of road games this week against teams that are not going particularly well right now. The Pacers could certainly be put in that category, too, but their 16-10 conference record suggests that they might just be able to make some noise. The Pacers can also take heart from the fact that they have already beaten the Hawks in their previous two meetings this season, and know that there is no reason why they shouldn’t be able to make it three in a row. Indiana are averaging 102.7 PPG, and are giving up 100.1 PPG.
Why bet on the Atlanta Hawks
This is not the same Hawks (28-22) team that waltzed away with the Eastern Conference last season, but they are still a dangerous squad that cannot be overlooked. Things have not been going too well as of late, though, as the offense seems to be struggling to get things going. They did have a bit of a breakout game in a 112-97 win over the Dallas Mavericks, and they will have the chance to build some real momentum if they can take out the 76ers on Wednesday night. The Hawks are a respectable 16-8 in their own building this year, but they are just 10-12 overall against teams with a record over .500. The Hawks are averaging 101.8 PPG, and are giving up 99.9 PPG so far this season.
Expert Pick and Final Score Prediction
I have to say that I am a little concerned with the sputtering offense of the Hawks in the past couple of weeks, and it is that which somewhat negates their home court advantage here. I expect this to be a close one, but like the Pacers to get the win over Atlanta once again.
Indiana Pacers 101 Atlanta Hawks 99
