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Hawks Set to Defend Nest Against Warriors' Onslaught at State Farm Arena

As the Atlanta Hawks prepare to host the Golden State Warriors at the State Farm Arena, fans are eager for what promises to be a thrilling encounter. The Hawks, with their recent performances, have shown both resilience and areas needing improvement.


ATLANTA, GA - MARCH 17: Anthony Lamb #40 of the Golden State Warriors drives to the basket during the game against the Atlanta Hawks on March 17, 2023 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Adam Hagy/NBAE via Getty Images)

In their last game against the Memphis Grizzlies, despite a strong start leading by as much as 12 points and dominating for over 28 minutes of playtime, the Hawks fell short by six points in a high-scoring affair that ended 125-119. The team's offensive prowess was evident with an impressive 60 percent shooting from inside the arc and a solid 80 percent from the free-throw line. However, defensive challenges were apparent as they allowed 125 points against them with a defensive rating of approximately 121.


The trend continued in their away game against Miami Heat where they lost by nine points (122-113), despite putting up a valiant effort. Here again, offense wasn't an issue; they shot well from two-point range (55 percent) and had good bench contributions (35 points). Yet defensively, they struggled to contain Miami's shooters who boasted an effective field goal percentage of around 56.


ATLANTA, GA - MARCH 17: Onyeka Okongwu #17 of the Atlanta Hawks drives to the basket during the game against the Golden State Warriors on March 17, 2023 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia.  NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Scott Cunningham/NBAE via Getty Images)

However, it wasn't all gloom for Atlanta; before facing Miami Heat, they secured an impressive victory over Houston Rockets with a seven-point margin (134-127). The Hawks showcased their scoring capabilities across all quarters and particularly excelled from beyond the arc hitting at approximately 42 percent.


As we look ahead to this matchup against Golden State Warriors on February 4th at State Farm Arena in Atlanta – which will be broadcasted on BSSE channel number 649 – fans can expect Atlanta's offense to come out guns blazing once more. But if victory is to be secured on home turf this time around, tightening up defense will be crucial against a team known for its sharpshooting abilities.


ATLANTA, GA - MARCH 17: Kevon Looney #5 of the Golden State Warriors drives against Bogdan Bogdanovic #13 of the Atlanta Hawks during the second half at State Farm Arena on March 17, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)

The key question remains: Can Atlanta maintain its offensive rhythm while stepping up defensively? Fans are sure not only to witness some high-octane basketball but also get answers come game night.

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