As the Atlanta Hawks gear up for their next game against the Dallas Mavericks on Monday, there is a surprising narrative unfolding this season. While many expected the Hawks’ defense to be their Achilles’ heel, it’s actually the offense that’s been more problematic. Through 17 games, the Hawks rank 23rd in the NBA in offensive efficiency, a stark contrast to their defensive improvements.
Offensive Struggles and Key Absences
The Hawks’ offensive woes can be attributed to several factors, including injuries to key players. Bogdan Bogdanović, a top offensive contributor, has only played four games, struggling in three of them. His absence, along with De’Andre Hunter missing 11 games, has significantly impacted the team’s shooting capabilities. The lack of consistent ball handling beyond Trae Young and Keaton Wallace has also been a hurdle.
Historically, the Hawks have thrived on a potent offense, especially with Young on the court. However, this season, their shooting percentages have dipped across the board. They’re currently 20th in true shooting percentage and 21st in effective field goal percentage. The team is taking good shots but failing to convert them, a trend that needs to change for the Hawks to meet their potential.
Defensive Improvements and Future Outlook
On the defensive side, the Hawks have shown notable progress. They’re no longer in the bottom five defensively, a position they’ve occupied in recent years. This improvement is crucial, as the team’s strategy has always been to pair a strong offense with a competent defense. Despite their well-documented struggles with three-point defense, the Hawks have excelled at protecting the rim, a positive sign for their defensive strategy.
The Hawks’ current situation is a mix of challenges and opportunities. While the offense needs to find its rhythm, the defense’s upward trajectory offers hope. The return of Bogdanović and Hunter should bolster the team’s offensive output, and as young players like Risa Shea and Jalen Johnson continue to develop, the Hawks have the potential to turn their season around.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Atlanta Hawks’ season, tune into the Locked On Hawks podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Hawks Podcast:
- The impact of Trae Young’s performance on the team’s turnover rate
- Analysis of the Hawks’ shot profile and shooting efficiency
- A look at the Hawks’ upcoming schedule and key matchups
- Listener mailbag: Addressing fan questions and concerns
