Opinion
3 min read

Can the Atlanta Hawks Outmaneuver the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center?

As the Atlanta Hawks prepare to face off against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center, fans are eager to see if their team can carry forward their offensive prowess and secure a victory. The upcoming game, scheduled for February 15th, is an opportunity for the Hawks to demonstrate that their recent performances are no fluke.


CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - OCTOBER 25: Brandon Miller #24 of the Charlotte Hornets brings the ball down the court during the second half of a basketball game against the Atlanta Hawks at Spectrum Center on October 25, 2023 in Charlotte, North Carolina. 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 David Jensen/Getty Images)

The Hawks have shown a remarkable ability to score in bunches. In their Christmas Eve clash with the Memphis Grizzlies, they put up 119 points but fell short by just six points in a high-scoring affair. Despite this loss, there were positive takeaways: an impressive 80 percent from the free-throw line and a solid 60 percent shooting from inside the arc indicate that when given opportunities at the rim or charity stripe, ATL converts efficiently.


However, it's not just about scoring; it's also about defense. The defensive rating of 120.56 against Memphis suggests room for improvement on that end of the floor. To come out on top against Charlotte, tightening up defensively will be crucial.


CHARLOTTE, NC - OCTOBER 25: P.J. Washington #25 of the Charlotte Hornets boxes out during the game against the Atlanta Hawks on October 25, 2023 at Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. 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 Kent Smith/NBAE via Getty Images)

In contrast to their performance against Memphis Grizzlies on December 24th where they led for over half of regulation time (28:18), ATL struggled during their December 23rd game with Miami Heat where they only led for a mere seven minutes and thirty-three seconds before ultimately losing by nine points. This inconsistency in maintaining leads could be detrimental if not addressed before facing CHA.


On December 21st versus Houston Rockets though, ATL showcased what they're capable of when everything clicks – scoring an impressive 134 points and leading for most of the game (42:31). Their three-point shooting was particularly notable as they hit an efficient 42 percent from beyond the arc.


CHARLOTTE, NC - OCTOBER 25: De'Andre Hunter #12 of the Atlanta Hawks shoots the ball during the game against the Charlotte Hornets on October 25, 2023 at Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. 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 Kent Smith/NBAE via Getty Images)

The key takeaway here is consistency – both in terms of maintaining leads and defensive effort throughout all four quarters. If ATL can replicate their offensive efficiency seen against Houston while shoring up defensively as seen during stretches across these past games, then fans have good reason to believe in a favorable outcome at Spectrum Center.


Looking ahead to February 15th’s encounter with CHA at Spectrum Center offers another chance for redemption and proof that ATL can compete consistently night after night. Fans eager to support their team can tune into BSSE channel 649 on TV whether cheering from home or away territories.


With anticipation building towards this matchup between two dynamic teams vying for dominance on court - one thing remains certain: The Atlanta Hawks' determination coupled with strategic adjustments may very well tip scales in what promises be an electrifying basketball showdown.

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