The Atlanta Hawks have done enough to win, but not enough to look like true contenders in the Eastern Conference through two games against the Brooklyn Nets. The team simply has not looked as consistent as they did during their lengthy win streak in the middle of the season. As the series shifts to Brooklyn form Game 3, the Hawks are searching for their edge again in hopes of getting a convincing win.
Injuries have been an issue for Atlanta over the past few weeks, but the team is showing progress in that effort as they are looking to set another franchise record by going up 3-0 in a playoff series. They have had moments where they were blowing out the Nets before giving up big leads for close finishes. In Game 1 the Hawks led by 16 at one point, but only got by with a 99-92 win. The same can be said in Game 2 when the Hawks got a 12-point lead and then let the Nets in enough for Deron Williams to have a chance at a game tying jump shot that was missed.
The Hawks are getting healthier and it is showing. After dealing with a shoulder injury. Paul Millsap bounced back with a 19-point effort, going 7-of-11 shooting with four 3-point shots. That is a big improvement from the six points he put up in the opener. Millsap removed a shoulder pad assisting his shoulder sprain and claimed that helped his shooting motion. Al Horford was in the same boat, dislocating his pinky in Game 1, but he still managed 14 points and 13 rebounds.
Despite the front court getting healthier, the Nets are still leading the Hawks by outrebounding them 96-80 while also getting the 91-70 scoring break in the edge, something that has been an issue for Atlanta. The team thrives in outside shooting and needs to get better at rebounding in order to have an edge in the playoffs.
Brooklyn is not going down without a fight and will aim to get a key win at home. Brook Lopez has been crucial combining for 37 points and 21 rebounds in the first two games. Joe Johnson is also looking strong against his former team with 36 points and 15 rebounds. Players like Thaddeus Young and Deron Williams are hoping home court advantage give them the edge in this game.
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