NBA Daily Picks: Thursday, October 27
By Jeremy Karll
Washington Wizards @ Atlanta Hawks
It’s a new era for the Atlanta Hawks with new center Dwight Howard and newly extended Dennis Schroder. Plus, they return Paul Millsap, Kyle Korver and Kent Bazemore. As much criticism as Howard receives, he has a chance to be a really good signing, but it might not happen right away.
Schroder enters the starting lineup with huge expectations, but it’d be surprising if there aren’t bumps along the way. Plus, Millsap will have to adapt to playing next to Howard since his and Al Horford’s games are so different.
That gives new head coach Scott Brooks a chance to start his Washington Wizards career off with a win. John Wall will continue to play at an All-Star level, and give Schroder problems, and Bradley Beal is finally healthy.
The biggest knock on Washington in past years is that Beal can never stay healthy. It’s hard to trust that he’ll be able to play 70 games, let alone all 82, but the important thing is he’s healthy for the season opener.
Washington doesn’t have great depth, as they will rely on Kelly Oubre Jr and Trey Burke to step up this season. Although, Atlanta will have a transition period trying to implement Schroder and Howard, and it’s not like they have amazing depth, either. The Hawks are at home and a four-point favorite, but home teams are just 6-7 this year.
Pick: Washington Wizards