This non-conference clash pits two teams heading in different directions — Atlanta is chasing playoff seeding, while Portland looks like a squad limping toward the offseason, both figuratively and literally.
Game Overview
Portland is just 1-6 SU in its last 7 road games, with the lone win coming against a depleted Sixers team. They’re also just 2-4 ATS over their last six overall. Despite a 41-34 ATS record on the season, they're only 19-18 ATS on the road.
Atlanta has been much stronger at home, winning 6 of their last 7 at State Farm Arena and going 5-2 ATS in those games. Overall, they’re trending upward, covering in 5 of their last 6 and hitting the Over in 6 of their last 7.
Injuries hit both teams hard. Portland is without Ayton, Williams, and likely Henderson. Simons and Grant are questionable. Atlanta misses Capela, Wallace, and others, but Trae Young is expected to play despite Achilles soreness.
Key Matchups & Analysis
- Interior Battle: Atlanta, even without Capela, holds a slight edge inside with Okongwu and a rebounding unit that ranks 11th at home. Portland ranks 25th defending the paint and is paper-thin up front with multiple bigs out.
- Guard Play: Young and Dyson Daniels have been torching defenses, while Portland’s backcourt has struggled, especially with Henderson out. Simons is questionable, and Sharpe’s production has been hot-and-cold.
- Tempo & Scoring Trends: Atlanta scores 117.9 PPG (5th home offense) and faces a Portland defense giving up 114.3 PPG. Both teams are trending Over (ATL 6-1 to the Over last 7; POR 4-1 Over last 5), and neither team boasts strong perimeter D.
- Historical Trends: Atlanta is 5-0 SU and 4-1 ATS in its last 5 at home vs Portland. That home-court dominance looms large here.
