Atlanta Hawks vs Boston Celtics Prediction | 01.28.26

Atlanta Hawks vs Boston Celtics Prediction, Odds & NBA Picks | 28-01-2026

The regular season heats up on January 28, 2026, as the Atlanta Hawks (23-25) travel to TD Garden to face the formidable Boston Celtics (29-17) at 7:30 PM. This matchup pits a struggling Hawks squad, grappling with significant injuries, against a Celtics team aiming to solidify their Eastern Conference standing, despite their own star’s absence.

Atlanta Hawks vs Boston Celtics Matchup Preview

Atlanta Hawks Key Stats & Trends

The Atlanta Hawks find themselves in a challenging position, largely due to a heavy reliance on the exceptional play of Jalen Johnson. Johnson has been the engine of this team, posting an impressive 23.0 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 7.9 assists per game, alongside 1.3 steals and 0.5 blocks. His all-around contributions are critical, but the team’s record reflects a lack of consistent support. Atlanta’s offense often stagnates when Johnson is off the floor or double-teamed, and their defense has struggled to contain opponents, especially in the paint.

Injury Report Atlanta Hawks

• Zaccharie Risacher (Out): Risacher (knee) has been ruled out for Wednesday’s game against the Celtics.
• Kristaps Porzingis (Out): Porzingis (Achilles) will be re-evaluated in one week, the Hawks announced Monday.
• N’Faly Dante (Out): Dante will undergo season-ending surgery to repair a torn ACL in his right knee, Michael Scotto of USA Today reports.

Boston Celtics Key Stats & Trends

The Boston Celtics, despite recent challenges, maintain a strong record, spearheaded by Jaylen Brown. Brown is enjoying an MVP-caliber season, averaging a staggering 29.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game. Derrick White’s playmaking remains a crucial element, with 5.4 assists per game, while Neemias Queta has been a strong presence on the boards, pulling down 8.0 rebounds per game. The Celtics play an aggressive, fast-paced style, excelling in transition and leveraging their depth, even with key players sidelined.

Injury Report Boston Celtics

• Neemias Queta (Day-to-day): Queta (illness) is doubtful for Wednesday’s game against the Hawks.
• Luka Garza (Day-to-day): Garza (illness) is questionable to play Wednesday versus the Hawks.
• Jayson Tatum (Out): The Celtics have not ruled Tatum (Achilles) out for the 2025-26 season, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported on the Pat McAfee Show on Thursday.

Atlanta Hawks vs Boston Celtics Prediction & Best Bet

Given the significant injury woes plaguing the Atlanta Hawks, particularly the absence of key big men Kristaps Porzingis and N’Faly Dante, they face an uphill battle against the Celtics. While Jalen Johnson’s individual brilliance is undeniable, he cannot single-handedly overcome Boston’s collective talent and depth. The Celtics, despite Jayson Tatum’s absence, still boast an elite scorer in Jaylen Brown and a strong supporting cast. Boston’s aggressive defense will likely target Johnson, forcing other Hawks players to step up, which has been a consistent challenge for Atlanta this season.

The Celtics’ home-court advantage and superior record further solidify their position as favorites. They will exploit Atlanta’s depleted frontcourt, attacking the paint and creating high-percentage looks. Expect a high-scoring affair, as the Hawks will need to match Boston’s offensive output, largely through Johnson’s heroics, while their defense struggles.

Predicted Winner: Boston Celtics
Total Points (230.5): Over