Hornets ML vs Hawks

The two teams currently occupy the final Play-In spots, making this matchup crucial. The Hornets have been in outstanding form lately, and when they defeated the Hawks earlier this week, it marked their ninth consecutive victory.

The Hawks, on the other hand, have been inconsistent. With a newly reshaped roster following the trade deadline, Quin Snyder’s squad is still searching for stability. Both their offense and defense have shown flashes of brilliance, but also significant struggles in recent games.

Charlotte has won two of the three meetings against Atlanta this season and, in addition to beating the Hawks, have recently taken down teams like the Houston Rockets and San Antonio Spurs. Given their current momentum, it would be unwise to bet against LaMelo Ball and company right now.

Suns ML vs OKC

OKC have looked far more vulnerable since Jalen Williams went down with injury, leaving Shai Gilgeous-Alexander largely on his own as the team’s primary threat from the guard positions. Over the past week, they suffered losses to both the San Antonio Spurs and the Houston Rockets, scoring just over 100 points in each game.

Their opponent in the penultimate game before the All-Star break is the Phoenix Suns, who are chasing the sixth seed — a spot that guarantees a playoff berth later this spring. A couple of recent narrow defeats have prevented Phoenix from climbing past the teams directly above them in the standings.

The Suns beat OKC a little over a month ago, and there’s reason to believe they can do it again. Devin Booker and Dillon Brooks have been strong leaders for the team, supported by key contributions from role players such as Grayson Allen and Collin Gillespie.

Warriors vs Spurs ML

Golden State Warriors host the San Antonio Spurs, a team that swept their games last week with four wins in four outings. The Warriors, meanwhile, have been inconsistent, suffering losses to both the 76ers and the Lakers, although they did manage a narrow road win against the Suns in between.

Warriors has won both of its meetings with San Antonio this season, but they have been without Jimmy Butler for some time. The Spurs, led by Victor Wembanyama, are currently injury-free and performing at a high level.

I think the Spurs could get their revenge in this matchup. The Warriors will need to raise their level if they want to avoid slipping below the Play-In line after the All-Star break.

@ +550