Atlanta’s stronger record meets a Washington attack built around Trae Young’s playmaking, with key frontcourt availability uncertain.
Friday’s matchup puts 5-4 Atlanta, ranked 15th in the power index, against Washington at 4-4 and 19th, with the Hawks’ 1-2 home record offering no room for complacency. Atlanta averages 115.8 points per game, while the Wizards score 108.9 and allow 109. Trae Young has delivered 76 assists in eight games for Washington, making Atlanta’s ability to contain his creation—and limit the openings it generates—the central matchup. Anthony Davis is questionable for the Wizards after an ankle sprain, while Atlanta’s Jalen Johnson is also questionable; Davis has 187 points and 74 rebounds, and his availability could reshape the frontcourt battle against Onyeka Okongwu, who has grabbed 77 rebounds.