Atlanta Hawks vs Washington Wizards
PREVIEW: The Washington Wizards arrive in Atlanta ranked first in efficient transition play but exposed defensively, allowing the most shots at the rim in the league while ranking 29th in defensive rebounding. The Hawks, meanwhile, boast elite offensive spacing and passing ranked first league-wide, yet they too have defensive vulnerabilities that could be exploited. Washington will be severely shorthanded with Anthony Davis, Trae Young, Cam Whitmore, Alex Sarr, and D'Angelo Russell all unavailable, while Tristan Vukcevic and Justin Champagnie remain questionable. Atlanta's only injury concern is Jonathan Kuminga, listed as out with a knee ailment.
The Hawks average 116.9 points per game, which sits five-plus points below what the Wizards typically allow on defense. Washington's road form has been particularly troublesome, with just one win in their last nine away games. Jalen Johnson continues to anchor Atlanta's attack with 23.4 points per game alongside 10.8 rebounds and 8.1 assists, while CJ McCollum has provided secondary scoring with 20.1 points over the last ten contests. For the Wizards, Kyshawn George has emerged as the most productive available player, averaging 14.9 points and 5.3 rebounds in an undermanned lineup.