On Monday, the Atlanta Hawks secured their fourth consecutive victory with a 124-112 win over the New Orleans Pelicans. This win was particularly significant as it marked Dejounte Murray’s return to Atlanta. Despite the Pelicans being plagued by injuries, the Hawks managed to hold their ground, showcasing a solid defensive performance throughout the game.
Dejounte Murray’s Return and Defensive Highlights
Murray’s return was a focal point, but it was the Hawks’ defense that truly shone. The Pelicans, missing key players like Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, struggled against Atlanta’s defensive setup. The Hawks maintained a defensive rating of 105.7, a testament to their improved performance in this area. The Pelicans only managed to find success in the second quarter, with the Hawks effectively contesting shots and limiting their free throw attempts to just 17.
The defensive prowess was evident as the Hawks recorded 12 steals, smothering the Pelicans on the perimeter. C.J. McCollum was the only Pelican who found some offensive rhythm, yet he required 27 shooting possessions to score 29 points, highlighting the Hawks’ defensive efficiency.
Offensive Struggles and Second-Half Surge
Offensively, the Hawks experienced a roller coaster of a game. The first half was marred by a lackluster performance, with the team trailing by one point at halftime. However, the second half saw a significant turnaround. The Hawks’ offense finally clicked, leading to a comfortable lead in the latter stages of the game. They excelled inside the arc, scoring 74 points in the paint and shooting 67% on two-point attempts.
Fast break points were another highlight, with the Hawks scoring 33 points in transition, capitalizing on the Pelicans’ turnovers. Despite shooting struggles from beyond the arc, DeAndre Hunter stood out, being the only player to shoot above 25% from three-point range.
Ball security was a concern, with the Hawks committing 18 turnovers, leading to 27 points for the Pelicans. However, they managed to tighten up in the second half, reducing turnovers and improving their offensive efficiency.
The Hawks’ ability to win despite not playing their best is a positive sign. They capitalized on the Pelicans’ weakened lineup and maintained their composure in the second half to secure the victory. This win brings the Hawks back to a .500 record, positioning them well for the remainder of the season.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Atlanta Hawks’ recent performances, tune into the Locked On Hawks podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Hawks Podcast:
- Analysis of Dejounte Murray’s performance and impact on the game
- Defensive strategies that led to the Hawks’ success
- In-depth look at the Hawks’ offensive adjustments in the second half
- Player-by-player evaluations and standout performances
- Upcoming challenges and what to expect in the next games
