Hawks brace for challenging Lakers test without Trae Young and Kristaps Porzingis
The Atlanta Hawks find themselves in a precarious position as they head into a crucial matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers tonight. After suffering losses in their first two encounters with the Toronto Raptors this season, the Hawks are eager to turn the tide.
Injury Woes for Atlanta
The absence of Trae Young looms large over the Hawks. While the team has managed to secure victories against weaker opponents like the Orlando Magic and Indiana Pacers, their struggles against more formidable teams have been glaring. The recent game against the Raptors served as a litmus test for Atlanta’s resilience without their star point guard.
In that matchup, the Hawks fell short, scoring just 97 points compared to the Raptors’ 109. Their inability to maintain a 13-point lead and a dismal 23.7% shooting from beyond the arc highlighted the stark decline in offensive firepower without Young. Despite solid performances from Jalen Johnson, who notched 21 points, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker with 20, the Hawks could not keep pace. Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram led the Raptors, ensuring Atlanta’s struggles were painfully evident.
The Lakers Without LeBron
Tonight, the Hawks face a Lakers team missing both LeBron James and Austin Reaves. Nonetheless, the presence of Luka Dončić is enough to keep Atlanta on high alert. Dončić has historically performed well against the Hawks, averaging 28.1 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 8 assists in his previous ten games against them. His offensive prowess poses a significant challenge for a Hawks team still trying to establish its identity without Young.
Statistical Snapshot
Atlanta’s offensive struggles are reflected in their rankings: 22nd in points scored, 16th in field goal percentage, and 25th in three-point shooting. While their defense has improved slightly, ranking 13th in points allowed and 8th in field goal percentage allowed, these metrics still fall short of compensating for their lackluster scoring.
Conversely, the Lakers have thrived offensively, ranking 9th in points per game and leading the league in field goal percentage. However, they too have their weaknesses, particularly in turnovers, where they rank 21st. This inconsistency could play into the hands of the Hawks, who excel at forcing turnovers.
Three Reasons Atlanta Can Prevail
1. Turnover Advantage: The Lakers’ propensity for turnovers could provide the Hawks with crucial fast-break opportunities. Atlanta ranks 7th in forcing opponent turnovers, presenting a potential path to offensive production.
2. Inside Presence: DeAndre Ayton has been a bright spot for the Lakers, but his defensive rebounding has been questionable. Onyeka Okongwu, having a career-best season in defensive rebounding percentage, could exploit this weakness.
3. Emerging Talent: Zaccharie Risacher has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in his recent game against the Raptors. If he can continue to develop as a ball-handler and scorer, he might emerge as a key player in tonight’s contest.
Three Reasons Atlanta Might Struggle
1. Luka’s Dominance: Dončić’s current form is extraordinary, averaging nearly 40 points per game. The Hawks will need Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Dyson Daniels to step up defensively to contain him.
2. Defensive Challenges: The Hawks have struggled to contain scoring in the paint, ranking 17th in that category. The Lakers’ effectiveness in scoring inside could exploit this vulnerability.
3. Bench Contributions: Rui Hachimura poses another challenge for Atlanta. His dual-threat capability on offense and defense could limit the effectiveness of Jalen Johnson, who may struggle against him.
Injury Report
Atlanta Hawks: Trae Young, Nikola Durisic, and Kristaps Porzingis are confirmed out. Luke Kennard, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and Jalen Johnson are listed as questionable.
Los Angeles Lakers: LeBron James, Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber, Adou Thiero, and Austin Reaves are all out.
Game Details
Tip-off time: 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time
Location: State Farm Arena, Atlanta, GA
Where to Watch: FanDuel Sports Network
Spread: The Hawks are 5.5-point underdogs, with the over/under set at 228.5.
In what promises to be a riveting contest, the Hawks will be seeking to prove their mettle in the absence of their star players.
