Orlando's new attack asks Banchero and Wagner to draw help and free Bane on the perimeter. Atlanta brings a familiar starting group with several ways to create and finish possessions. The middle quarters should turn on whether Orlando keeps the ball moving or Atlanta turns defensive stops into quick offense.
Daniels and Alexander-Walker can meet Orlando's big wing creators, with Dort and Wiggins giving Atlanta more perimeter coverage when the rotations change. Johnson connects Atlanta's rebounding, passing and paint attack, while McCollum supplies a late half-court answer. Orlando's Black and Isaac are out, thinning the defensive options behind its starters; Wagner is available after playing in the last exhibition. Atlanta's core also played its finale, and Snyder has named a continuity group.
I expect Orlando to create good drives early, then Atlanta's layered wing defense and transition chances to matter more as the benches enter. That's why I'm siding with the Atlanta Hawks to win.
