Eastern Conference Showdown: Raptors Host Hawks in a Battle of Contrasting Fortunes, with Key Absences Potentially Shaping the Outcome of This NBA Encounter

The Toronto Raptors (20 wins, 15 losses, 1-game losing streak), currently fourth in the Eastern Conference, face the Atlanta Hawks (17 wins, 19 losses, 2-game winning streak), who are tenth, in a home game for the Raptors. The Raptors have home-court advantage and are well-rested. The Hawks are playing on back-to-back nights, but their team offense has become more fluid since Trae Young's absence. The outcome hinges on the details. The Raptors are missing Poeltl, which weakens their interior defense. They will rely on Barnes (averaging 20.5 points and 8 rebounds), Ingram, and Bart to lead the attack. Their recent loss to the Nuggets exposed their weak bench scoring, managing only 12 points. Recommendation: Toronto Raptors