The Atlanta Hawks’ journey in the NBA Cup came to a close on Saturday evening in Las Vegas, as they fell to the Milwaukee Bucks 110-102 in a hard-fought semifinal matchup. Despite the loss, the Hawks showcased their defensive prowess, holding their own against a formidable Bucks squad.
The game was a tale of two halves for Atlanta. The first half saw the Hawks struggle offensively, shooting a mere 33% on two-point attempts and converting only 7 of 24 shots in the paint. However, their tenacious defense kept them within striking distance, trailing by just six points at halftime.
Trae Young ignited the Hawks’ offense in the third quarter, delivering a spectacular performance that briefly gave Atlanta the lead. Young’s 14 points in nine minutes, including six of seven from the field and two three-pointers, showcased his ability to take over games when it matters most.
Defensive Dominance
While the offense sputtered, the Hawks’ defense shined throughout the contest. They limited the Bucks to a 105 defensive rating and an impressive 91 offensive rating in the half-court. This defensive effort has been a trend for Atlanta, boasting the seventh-best defensive rating in the league over their last nine games.
Offensive Struggles
Despite Young’s heroics, the Hawks couldn’t overcome their shooting woes. The team finished with a dismal 98.1 offensive rating, their third-worst of the season. The fourth quarter proved particularly challenging, as Atlanta managed just 19 points on a 71 offensive rating.
Free throw shooting also plagued the Hawks, as they converted only 22 of 34 attempts from the charity stripe. This inconsistency at the line proved costly in a game that remained close until the final minutes.
While the loss stings, there are positives to take away from the Hawks’ NBA Cup performance. The team’s improved defensive play and competitive spirit against top-tier opponents bode well for the remainder of the regular season.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Hawks’ NBA Cup semifinal performance, tune into the Locked On Hawks podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Hawks Podcast:
• Trae Young’s impressive stat line and historical context
• Jalen Johnson’s struggles and potential ankle concerns
• The impact of the NBA Cup schedule on the Hawks’ upcoming games
