The Atlanta Hawks were blasted by the Denver Nuggets on Sunday, with the team’s winning streak coming to an end as a result. The first half was particularly tough, with the Hawks struggling to find their rhythm both offensively and defensively. The Nuggets capitalized on this, hitting their shots with precision and exploiting the Hawks’ defensive lapses. The Hawks’ inability to stop penetration and contest shots beyond the arc was a glaring issue that needed addressing.
Offensive Woes and Defensive Challenges
In the second half, the Hawks showed some improvement on the offensive end, but the damage from the first half was already done. Despite a recent winning streak, this performance was a letdown, highlighting the inconsistency that has plagued the team. The Hawks’ offensive rating was a dismal 104, placing them among the league’s bottom five. The first half was particularly brutal, with an offensive rating of just 89 and a true shooting percentage of 41. These numbers underscore the team’s struggles to convert opportunities into points.
The Hawks’ shooting woes were evident as they went 9 of 40 from beyond the arc, a mere 23%. The first three quarters were especially rough, with a 5 of 30 performance from three-point range. This kind of shooting will not win games against a team like Denver, which, while not at its peak this season, remains formidable. Inside the arc, the Hawks fared slightly better but still struggled from floater range, hitting only 35%.
Despite these challenges, the Hawks excelled in some areas. They committed only 12 turnovers, a significant improvement, and dominated the glass with 29 second-chance points. They also took 27 free throws, showcasing their ability to draw fouls and capitalize on those opportunities. However, their half-court offense was in the first percentile for efficiency, a statistic that highlights their inability to score when the game slowed down.
Individually, the Hawks had a tough night. Dyson Daniels was the only player who performed above expectations, especially with his trademark defensive impact. Trae Young, usually a reliable scorer, struggled with his floater, a shot that has been off all season. De’Andre Hunter, who had been red-hot in recent days, had an off night, and Garrison Matthews was notably ineffective.
Defensively, the Hawks were unable to contain Nikola Jokic, who dominated the game. The Hawks forced 20 turnovers, including 12 steals, but it wasn’t enough to counter the Nuggets’ offensive prowess.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Hawks’ performance and future prospects, tune into the Locked On Hawks podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Hawks Podcast:
- Analysis of the Hawks’ recent winning streak and what it means for their season.
- A look ahead to the Hawks’ next matchup against the New York Knicks.
- Discussion on the impact of injuries on the Hawks’ lineup and performance.
- Insights into the Hawks’ defensive strategies and areas for improvement.
