76ers vs Hawks: Can Philadelphia Continue Road Streak?

The NBA matchup between the Philadelphia 76ers and Atlanta Hawks on December 14, 2025, promises to be an intriguing contest as two teams heading in opposite directions face off at State Farm Arena. With the 76ers riding a wave of momentum and the Hawks searching for a bounce-back performance, this game could provide valuable insights into both teams' postseason aspirations.

Team Form and Recent Performance

The 76ers (14-10) have found their rhythm, winning 4 of their last 5 games. Most recently, they defeated the Indiana Pacers 115-105, covering as 5-point home favorites. Joel Embiid led the charge with 39 points on 12-for-23 shooting, showcasing his continued dominance. Philadelphia's defense has been particularly impressive, holding 4 of their last 5 opponents to 105 points or fewer.

Meanwhile, the Hawks (14-12) have struggled, losing 4 of their last 5 games after a promising 10-5 start to November. Their most recent performance was particularly concerning—a 142-115 defeat to the Detroit Pistons that included allowing at least 123 points in 5 of their last 8 games. Atlanta's defensive vulnerabilities have been exposed during this slump.

Key Injuries Impacting the Matchup

Both teams will be dealing with significant injuries that could shape the outcome:

Philadelphia 76ers:

• Joel Embiid (knee) - Questionable
• Tyrese Maxey (illness) - Doubtful
• Kelly Oubre Jr. (knee) - Out
• Trendon Watford (adductor) - Out

Atlanta Hawks:

• Nickeil Alexander-Walker (ankle) - Questionable
• Kristaps Porzingis (illness) - Out
• Trae Young (knee) - Out

The absence of Trae Young and Porzingis significantly impacts Atlanta's offense and frontcourt depth, while Philadelphia's backcourt situation is precarious without Maxey.

Starting Lineups

Despite the injury concerns, both teams have announced their starting lineups:

Atlanta Hawks:

• G: Nickeil Alexander-Walker
• G: Dyson Daniels
• F: Zaccharie Risacher
• F: Jalen Johnson
• C: Onyeka Okongwu

Philadelphia 76ers:

• G: Quentin Grimes
• G: VJ Edgecombe
• F: Paul George
• F: Dominick Barlow
• C: Joel Embiid

Betting Analysis and Odds

The betting lines reflect the diverging trajectories of these teams:

• Moneyline: 76ers +155 | Hawks -190
• Spread: 76ers +4.5 (-105) | Hawks -4.5 (-115)
• Over/Under: 226.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Expert predictions lean toward the 76ers, with many analysts citing Philadelphia's improved defense as the deciding factor. The prediction is 76ers 114, Hawks 111, with a moneyline bet on Philadelphia (+155) being the recommended play. The under at 226.5 is also favored, as the 76ers have gone under in 5 straight games.

Statistical Matchup

Hawks Advanced Stats:

• 16th in offensive rating
• 14th in defensive rating
• 1st in assists per game
• 21st in points allowed

76ers Advanced Stats:

• 15th in offensive rating
• 9th in defensive rating
• 9th in rebounds per game
• 12th in points allowed

The Hawks' offensive efficiency has been surprisingly solid without Young, but their defensive struggles have cost them games. Meanwhile, Philadelphia's defense has been a key factor in their recent success.

What to Expect

Given the circumstances, we can anticipate a defensive-oriented game played at a slower pace. The 76ers' ability to limit opponents has been impressive, and they'll look to exploit Atlanta's defensive vulnerabilities. Philadelphia has won 3 straight road games, and if Embiid plays, his presence in the paint could be decisive.

The Hawks will need to rely on their depth and home-court advantage to overcome the absence of their two stars. Alexander-Walker's performance will be crucial, as will the duo of Johnson and Okongwu in the frontcourt.

Ultimately, this game appears to favor the 76ers, but in the NBA, anything can happen when star players miss time. The Hawks will be motivated to bounce back after their embarrassing loss to the Pistons, making this a must-watch contest for NBA fans.