The Atlanta Hawks and Brooklyn Nets are set to face off on Sunday, March 16, 2025, at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. Tip-off is scheduled for 6:00 PM ET, and the game will be broadcast on YES and FDSSE. This Eastern Conference matchup features two teams with contrasting goals as the Hawks aim to solidify their playoff positioning, while the Nets look to end their recent struggles.
Team Overview
Atlanta Hawks
The Hawks enter this game with a 32-35 record, sitting in 7th place in the Eastern Conference. They are battling to maintain their position in the play-in tournament and keep some distance from the Orlando Magic. Atlanta recently had a four-game winning streak snapped in a 121-98 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers. Despite the setback, the Hawks have been in good form, winning five of their last seven games.
Trae Young remains the engine of Atlanta’s offense, averaging 23.9 points and a league-leading 11.5 assists per game. Onyeka Okongwu has stepped up in the absence of Clint Capela, contributing 18 points and 10 rebounds in their last outing. However, the Hawks will be without Capela (personal reasons) and Larry Nance Jr. (knee), which puts additional pressure on their frontcourt.
Brooklyn Nets
The Nets are enduring a tough season with a 22-45 record, placing them 13th in the Eastern Conference. They have lost 10 of their last 11 games and are coming off a narrow 115-113 loss to the Boston Celtics. Brooklyn’s offense has struggled, ranking 25th in field goal percentage (44.8%) and 18th in points per game (111.6). Injuries have further compounded their issues, with Cam Thomas (hamstring) and De’Anthony Melton (ACL) out for the season.
Cameron Johnson has been a bright spot for the Nets, averaging 18.9 points per game with impressive shooting efficiency. Nic Claxton’s availability (day-to-day) will be crucial for Brooklyn’s rim protection and rebounding.
Key Matchups
- Trae Young vs. Brooklyn’s Defense: Young’s playmaking and scoring ability will test the Nets’ defense, which ranks 9th in points allowed per game (111.6).
- Onyeka Okongwu vs. Nic Claxton (if available): Okongwu’s energy and rebounding will be pivotal in the absence of Capela, while Claxton’s rim protection could be a game-changer for Brooklyn.
- Cameron Johnson vs. Atlanta’s Perimeter Defense: Johnson’s scoring efficiency will be a key factor for the Nets, especially if they aim to exploit Atlanta’s defensive lapses.
Game Analysis
The Hawks are slight favorites with a spread of -6.5, and the over/under is set at 228.5 points. Atlanta’s offense ranks 5th in the league in pace (92.0 FGA per game), while Brooklyn prefers a slower tempo (84.1 FGA, 2nd fewest). This contrast in styles could influence the game’s flow. The Hawks’ road defense has been solid, holding opponents to 110.8 points per game over their last five away contests. However, Brooklyn’s recent dominance against Atlanta against the spread (7-0 ATS) adds an interesting dynamic.
