Atlanta Hawks vs Houston Rockets Picks and Predictions January 11th 2025

Alperen Sengun, Rockets carry road momentum into Hawks clash

The Houston Rockets, powered by the stellar play of Alperen Sengun, are set to face the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday, hoping to maintain their impressive road momentum. Coming off a three-game winning streak, including two key road victories, the Rockets are finding their rhythm as they take on an Atlanta team eager to bounce back at home.

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Houston Rockets: Momentum in Full Swing

The Rockets’ resurgence has been spearheaded by center Alperen Sengun, who has been a standout performer over the last three games, racking up 72 points. His latest feat, a 32-point explosion in Thursday’s 119-115 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies, showcased his offensive versatility. Sengun went 12-for-20 from the field and added 14 rebounds and five assists to his stat line, demonstrating why he’s the team’s cornerstone in the paint.

Despite his recent dominance, Sengun’s free-throw struggles persist. He went 7-for-15 from the charity stripe against Memphis, but head coach Ime Udoka remains confident. “He’s one of our leading scorers and shot creators. I trust he’ll knock down those free throws when it matters,” Udoka said.

For the season, Sengun is averaging 19.3 points and 10.5 rebounds. Over the last seven games, his scoring has jumped to 23.6 points per game, making him a critical player for Houston’s success.

Veteran guard Fred VanVleet has also been a clutch performer, particularly in high-pressure moments. His late-game heroics against Memphis, including a pivotal basket in the final minute, underscore his leadership. “It’s my favorite part of the game,” VanVleet shared. “When everything’s on the line, I thrive on making plays for myself or my teammates.”

The Rockets are navigating injuries, with forward Tari Eason sidelined for 11 consecutive games due to leg soreness and illness. His status remains day-to-day, leaving Houston’s bench slightly thin.

Atlanta Hawks: Battling Fatigue and Injuries

The Hawks return to State Farm Arena after a grueling six-game road trip that saw them finish 2-4. Their last outing, a 123-115 loss to the Phoenix Suns on Thursday, highlighted their struggles on the road.

Atlanta has been hampered by injuries, most notably the absence of Jalen Johnson. The team’s second-leading scorer (19.8 points, 10.1 rebounds, 5.3 assists) has missed four of the last five games due to shoulder soreness. In his absence, De’Andre Hunter has stepped up admirably. Averaging 19.4 points during this stretch, Hunter has embraced a sixth-man role and earned high praise from head coach Quin Snyder.

“He’s a warrior on both ends of the court,” Snyder said. “Whether he’s wrestling in the post or defending in pick-and-roll situations, his versatility is invaluable to us.”

The Hawks will also look to Trae Young to orchestrate their offense. Young, who leads the NBA with 12.1 assists per game, has been a masterful playmaker. His recent 20-assist performance against Utah marked the third time he reached that milestone this season. With Young averaging 22.5 points, he remains the focal point of Atlanta’s attack.

Head-to-Head Matchup and Historical Context

This marks the first meeting of the season between the Rockets and Hawks. Last season, Atlanta swept the series and has won the last two matchups at home.

Sengun’s history against the Hawks includes four career games with averages of 12.3 points and 7.5 rebounds. However, his recent form suggests he could surpass those numbers. VanVleet also has a solid track record against Atlanta, averaging 16.1 points and 6.6 assists across 19 games.

On the other side, the Hawks will rely on their home-court advantage, playing their first game at State Farm Arena since December 28.

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Key Storylines to Watch

1. Sengun’s Free-Throw Performance: While Sengun dominates inside, his ability to convert free throws could prove pivotal in a tight game.
2. Hunter’s Defensive Versatility: With Johnson sidelined, Hunter’s two-way play will be critical in containing Sengun and the Rockets’ perimeter players.
3. Trae Young’s Playmaking: Can Young continue his historic pace and exploit Houston’s defense with his pinpoint passing?

Conclusion

The clash between the Rockets and Hawks offers a compelling narrative: Houston’s surging confidence against Atlanta’s hunger to rebound at home. With Sengun and VanVleet leading the charge for the Rockets and Young orchestrating Atlanta’s offense, this matchup is set to be a thrilling contest.

Will the Rockets extend their road streak, or can the Hawks reclaim their winning ways on home court? Basketball fans are in for an exciting showdown.