Mavericks vs Hawks Betting Odds – Dallas Will Extend Streak to Six
March 11th, 2010 Posted in NBA bettingThe Mavericks vs Hawks betting odds matches up two quality NBA teams. Even though the Hawks are at home, the Mavericks and their new-look roster should get the job done at Phillips Arena.
The Storyline: Mavericks vs Hawks Betting Odds
Dallas will come into Atlanta on a five game win streak, and fresh off a big win over the Los Angeles Lakers. The Mavs have been on a tear lately, showing much improved defense after a roster shakeup that seems to be having its desired effect. For their part, the Hawks are coming into the game off a win over the Minnesota Timberwolves. Atlanta, currently sitting two games behind Orlando in the Southeast, will be looking to gain some momentum as they head into a stretch that also includes games against Milwaukee and Chicago.
Offensive Matchups: Mavericks vs Hawks Betting Odds
Dirk Nowitzki continued his trend of high numbers with 31 points in Wednesday’s game against the Lakers, but perhaps even more impressive was Jason Terry’s performance. Terry finished the night with 30 points including 18 in the first half. Jason Kidd continues to play big minutes – and that seems to be exactly what he wants. Kidd put up a serious line in the Maverick’s last game, with 14 points, 13 assists, seven rebounds while only giving up two turnovers to the Lakers. While we can expect Kidd to run the show once again in Atlanta, the player most are excited to see is Caron Butler, who adds a new dimension to the Mav’s offense, providing the kind of plays the team is not known for – creating space and opportunity and getting it done. Fans and pundits alike are eager to see just what benefits a player like Butler can reap.
Atlanta, on the other hand, is coming off a performance against the Timberwolves that wasn’t particularly impressive. Josh Smith once again led the team in points with 27, as well as 10 rebounds and five assists. Hawks guard Joe Johnson followed with 20 points, but there were clear signs of problems in the win: Jamal Crawford went 0-7 from the field after returning from a sore shoulder, and the Hawks only managed to score 20 points in the fourth quarter, at times struggling to keep the hungry Timberwolves at bay. If NBA betting is your thing, it’s a safe bet to count on Dallas’ dominating offense outclassing the Hawks in this matchup.
Free sports picks: Mavericks
Defensive Matchups: Mavericks vs Hawks Betting Odds
Since the All Star break, few teams have had much luck putting up high numbers against Dallas. After showing pathetic defense for a stretch earlier in the season, Dallas appears to be back on track, giving up fewer turnovers and keeping their opponents numbers down – during an earlier stretch in the season, opponents of the Mavericks were averaging a mind blowing 112.4 points per game. The trade between Dallas and Washington which saw Caron Butler, Brendan Haywood, and DeShawn Stevenson don Maverick uniforms has paid off in exactly the way Dallas’ front office hoped it would. Haywood’s defensive presence in the post is practically a panacea for the team, and it’s been reflected in stunning performances against the Phoenix Suns and Orlando Magic. Look for it to be reflected in the sportsbook as well, Dallas has a clear advantage here.
Free sports picks: Mavericks
Injuries: Mavericks vs Hawks Betting Odds
At this time neither Dallas nor Atlanta have any notable injuries that are expected to keep players out on Friday. New Mav, Caron Butler was unexpectedly sidelined for Wednesday night’s game against the Lakers after a bad reaction to medication, but he is expected to be back playing on Friday.
Free sports picks: Even.
Betting Prediction: Mavericks vs Hawks Betting Odds
While Atlanta still has life left in them, Dallas at this point will prove just too much. If the team were playing like they were before the break, with abysmal defense and a clear lack of motivation, Atlanta might be an attractive underdog for those interested in sports betting. As it stands, however, Dallas has shown their defense has come too far and looked too good as of late. Look for Dallas to win the game and set their season record with wins in six games.
CRAIG’s Pick: Mavericks
