The Milwaukee Bucks (17-24) visit the Atlanta Hawks (20-24) today, Monday, January 19, for a special MLK Day matinee. Both teams enter this matchup desperate for a win, each carrying a three-game losing streak and sitting near the bottom of the Eastern Conference play-in race
Game Information
- Time: 1:00 PM ET
- Venue: State Farm Arena, Atlanta, GA
- TV/Streaming: Peacock
- Betting Line: Hawks -2.5 to -5.5 (varies by book); Total: 231.5
Key Matchup: Battle of the Interior
- Bucks Perspective: While Giannis Antetokounmpo (28.8 PPG) remains a dominant force, the Bucks’ offense has struggled recently, ranking as the league’s 6th worst over the last two weeks. They will look to exploit an Atlanta frontcourt that is severely depleted by injuries.
- Hawks Perspective: Atlanta relies heavily on Jalen Johnson (22.8 PPG, 10.1 RPG), who has blossomed into an All-Star caliber threat. However, their defense has been a major liability since December, and they are currently missing several key rim protectors.
Injury Report
The Hawks are significantly more shorthanded heading into this contest:
- Atlanta Hawks: * Kristaps Porzingis: Out (Achilles)
- Zaccharie Risacher: Out (Knee contusion)
- Dyson Daniels: Questionable (Ankle sprain)
- N’Faly Dante: Out for season (ACL)
- Milwaukee Bucks: * Taurean Prince: Out (Neck)
- Note: The core rotation of Giannis, Kevin Porter Jr., and Bobby Portis is healthy and available.
Statistical Comparison
| Stat | Milwaukee Bucks | Atlanta Hawks |
| PPG | 112.4 (27th) | 117.6 (10th) |
| Opp PPG | 115.8 (15th) | 119.2 (25th) |
| Rebounding | 40.3 (28th) | 41.7 (20th) |
| 3PT % | 39.3% (3rd) | 37.0% (9th) |
The Bottom Line
Expect a high-scoring “MLK Day” track meet. Atlanta’s pace (2nd in NBA) will test the Bucks’ transition defense, but Milwaukee’s superior health and 3-point shooting could be the difference-maker against a Hawks team missing its primary rim protection in Porzingis.
Pick: Hawks -2.5 (-105) at Betonline Sportsbook. Sign up HERE for a $250 Bonus!
While both teams are struggling, the Hawks have a slight edge due to their home-court advantage and the high-octane pace they play at, which often wears down older teams like Milwaukee in early afternoon starts.