Hawks vs Thunder Picks and Prediction – 10/27/2024

In Sunday night NBA action, the Atlanta Hawks will invade the Peycom Center to face the Oklahoma City Thunder. For other NBA action see our NBA Predictions. The Hawks (2-0) have been one of the worst defensive teams in the league over the last few seasons and are looking to build a functional defense around All-Star G Trae Young. On Friday, Atlanta assisted on 25 of 39 made field goals and shot 48 percent during a 125-120 home victory versus Charlotte. 

Trae Young erupted for a game-high 38 points (11-24 FG) to go along with ten assists and eight rebounds. Atlanta F De’Andre Hunter chipped in 24 points (7-14 FG) and seven rebounds. Jalen Johnson added 16 points and seven boards for the Hawks. 

The Oklahoma City Thunder won 33 of 41 home games and tied with Denver for the best overall record in the Western Conference a season ago. The Thunder ranked third in the league in offensive efficiency and averaged 120.1 points per contest. This will be the second of a back-to-back for Oklahoma City, who built a 20-point halftime lead and cruised to a 114-95 road triumph against Chicago. 

Oklahoma City F Jalen Williams led all scorers with 24 points on 10-for-22 shooting and grabbed nine rebounds. All-Star G Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributed 23 points (9-21 FG) and eight boards. Chet Holmgren added 21 points and 16 rebounds for the Thunder.

Oklahoma City C Isaiah Hartenstein suffered a fractured left hand and will be re-evaluated in 4-5 weeks. The Hawks have shown some improved defensive play through the first two games. With the Thunder playing on consecutive nights, take the points. Final Score Prediction, Oklahoma City Thunder win 118-114.