The Atlanta Hawks have a great matchup on the schedule as they take on the Brooklyn Nets Wednesday night. The Hawks have started off the season 4-3 following their Eastern Conference Finals run, while the Nets also sit at 4-3. Trae Young's scoring has dropped off from last season as he adjusts to the new foul rules in the NBA.
These rule changes have affected many people throughout the NBA, including James Harden, who will go up against Atlanta in this one. This matchup could be a playoff preview as both teams have high expectations with their rosters. With that said, here are four bold predictions for the Hawks against the Nets.
*Watch NBA games LIVE with fuboTV (click for free trial)*
Atlanta Hawks Predictions vs. Nets
4. Hawks shoot over 40 percent from 3
The Hawks have some elite 3-point shooters on the roster but have only shot 34.6 from 3 as a team. If they want to reach their full potential, they will need to convert more of their triples. Star guard Young has heavily struggled from deep to start the season, shooting a mere 27 percent.
The Nets have an improved defensive unit from last year, but Atlanta has the talent to shoot a high efficiency from deep. Look for the Hawks to have a good performance from behind the arc as they start to get in a rhythm.
3. Clint Capela blocks 3-plus shots
When the Hawks acquired Clint Capela a few years ago, it was an under-the-radar move. Capela has had a significant impact on the team as a double-double machine while also being a shot blocker. On the season, Capela is putting up 9.9 points per game along with 10.7 rebounds. He also has 1.7 blocks per game, including one game with three blocks this season.
The Nets don't have a dominant center, which should allow Capela to feast in the paint. Look to him to take over as a shot blocker in the paint and block three-plus shots.
2. Trae Young gets a double-double
Trae Young is one of the best young stars in the league, but his scoring numbers have dropped to start the season. He has been able to stay consistent with his passing, averaging the same amount of assists as last season with 9.4 per game. Young is close to averaging a double-double this season as he is recording 22.9 points per game. While Young's scoring has dropped, his playmaking ability has been elite, helping the Hawks pick up wins.
Great players often adjust when they are facing challenges, and Young should overcome the new rule changes. Young can get a double-double on any night with his playmaking and scoring ability, and the Hawks will need him to have a big game against the Nets.
1. Hawks beat the Nets
Atlanta has huge expectations after making an Eastern Conference Finals run last season. The Nets are widely regarded as one of the favorites to win the title, and this could be a playoff matchup. Even with Kyrie Irving not playing with the Nets due to the vaccine mandate, they are a threat with Kevin Durant and James Harden. Young and the Hawks need to win games like this throughout the season to gain confidence against the league's best teams.
Atlanta's defense will be the crucial factor in this game as both teams possess great offenses. Look for the Hawks to beat the Nets and start to gain momentum as they head deeper into the season.
Follow Us
Subscribe