Here are The Game Day’s 76ers vs Hawks predictions and bet pick for the 2021 NBA Playoffs Round 2 Series. After our 76ers vs Hawks Round 2 series preview, check out our 2021 NBA Playoffs Power Rankings & our full 2021 NBA Playoffs Guide.
76ers vs Hawks Prediction: 2021 NBA Playoffs Round 2 Bet Tips & Pick
Philadelphia 76ers Round 1 Recap
After earning the one seed during the regular season, the Philadelphia 76ers quickly dispatched the Washington Wizards in five games during the first round of the NBA Playoffs. The series wasn’t particularly close, with Philadelphia winning three of the games by at least 17 points.
The 76ers did suffer a potentially devastating blow to their title chances in Game 4, however, when Joel Embiid was forced to leave the game with a torn meniscus in his right knee. Embiid missed Game 5 and is day-to-day, as Philadelphia has elected to forego surgery for now. If Embiid does return for this series, he likely won’t be at 100 percent.
Atlanta Hawks Round 1 Recap
The Atlanta Hawks made quick work of the New York Knicks in the first round, delivering a five-game knockout. After splitting the first two games, Atlanta clamped down defensively, holding New York to less than 100 points in each of the last three games. The Hawks ultimately ran away with the series, winning Games 3, 4, and 5 by double digits.
While Atlanta’s defense was impressive, the offense also found ways to score against Tom Thibodeau‘s vaunted defense, which allowed the NBA’s fewest points per game during the regular season. The Hawks scored at least 100 points in four of the five games, largely thanks to Trae Young, who averaged 29.2 points per game and scored more than twice as many points as any of his teammates. Clint Capela had a strong series as well, averaging 10.0 points and 13.4 rebounds per game.
Philadelphia 76ers vs. Atlanta Hawks Matchup
Even if Joel Embiid misses additional time, the 76ers should still be able to hold their own. They’ve gone 11-11 in the games he’s missed this year (including postseason) and know how to play without him. Philadelphia has the size and depth to replace him until he returns.
Both teams are strong defensively but are more limited on offense, which should result in a hard-fought, low-scoring series. There will be a ton of pressure on Philadelphia’s guards and wings to contain Trae Young along with Atlanta’s entire scoring-savvy backcourt. Based on how Young lit up the Knicks’ elite defense, he’ll be incredibly tough to stop.
Philadelphia 76ers vs. Atlanta Hawks Prediction
Philadelphia 76ers Win Series, 4-2
There’s no guarantee that Embiid misses this series, and even if he does the 76ers are still talented enough to make up the difference. Trae Young went berserk against a team without any stars in Round 1, but he should have a much tougher time doing so against the size and length of Philly.
The Hawks will find it difficult to get open looks against Philadelphia’s defense and eventually won’t be able to rely on Young’s shooting and creating to win. Bogdan Bogdanović, Kevin Huerter, and Lou Williams will have to step up if Atlanta wants to win, while Danilo Gallinari and De’Andre Hunter will have to hit their spot-up shots and not cripple the offense with bricks. It’s all easier said than done against one of the best defenses in the league.
Atlanta will take a few games, but the better, more seasoned roster will win out in the end.
Philadelphia 76ers vs. Atlanta Hawks Bet Pick
Series Spread: Philadelphia 76ers -1.5 (+120)
Embiid or no Embiid, this series probably won’t go seven games. Meniscus tears are serious but they can be played through, so we’ll likely see Embiid at some point. His presence alone will force Atlanta to respect him on the floor and gameplan accordingly, so he could be the difference-maker in this series.
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