The Atlanta Hawks are on a roll, boasting a five-game winning streak that has fans buzzing. This success is largely attributed to their impressive performance on both ends of the court. The Hawks’ ability to win on the margins is evident in their assist numbers, averaging 31.6 assists per game over the last 15 games, setting a franchise record for consistency in that area. De’Andre Hunter has been exceptional, averaging 22 points per game on 73% true shooting. His contributions have been vital, especially in bench minutes alongside Bogdan Bogdanovic.
Defensive Prowess
Defensively, the Hawks have been formidable, allowing just 59% shooting at the rim, a top-five mark in the league. Clint Capela has been a standout, leading the league in offensive rebounds with an average of 4.8 per game. His dominance on the glass, alongside Onyeka Okongwu’s 3.3 offensive rebounds per game, has been crucial in creating extra scoring opportunities.
Capela and Okongwu have been instrumental in this defensive wall, while the team as a whole ranks third in the NBA in half-court first-shot defense. Their ability to contest shots and force turnovers, averaging over 10 steals per game, has been a game-changer. Dejounte Murray leads the league in steals, contributing significantly to this defensive surge.
The Hawks’ opponents have shot just 32.6% from three-point range during this streak, a marked improvement from the 39.9% in the previous 18 games. While some of this can be attributed to shooting variance, the Hawks’ defensive efforts are undeniable. Despite shooting only 35% from three themselves, the Hawks have managed to secure victories, showcasing their resilience and ability to win through defense and teamwork.
Offensive Balance and Key Players
Offensively, the Hawks have displayed remarkable balance, with seven of their nine rotation players averaging 11 points or more during the streak. Jalen Johnson has also been a revelation, averaging 28.1 points, rebounds, and 7 assists while shooting 60% from the field. His all-around performance places him among the league’s elite in scoring, rebounding, and assists.
Capela’s presence on the court has resulted in an impressive 95.6 defensive rating, highlighting his role as a defensive anchor. Trae Young, despite struggling with his shooting, continues to impact the game with his playmaking, averaging 12.12 assists per game.
The Hawks’ defensive improvements are evident, with only two of their nine regular players being below-average defenders. Trae Young has shown progress on defense, while Dyson Daniels has emerged as the best perimeter defender the team has had in a decade. This enhanced defensive personnel has been a key factor in the Hawks’ recent success.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Atlanta Hawks’ winning streak, 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’ upcoming game against the Los Angeles Lakers
- Impact of LeBron James’ potential absence on the Lakers
- Trae Young’s role and performance in the current season
- Defensive strategies and player contributions
- Insights into the Hawks’ draft prospects and future picks
