The Atlanta Hawks are beginning to mold into a team that can contend for a playoff berth after a slow start. They picked up a clutch victory in Sacramento Monday Night in a 109-108 contest that was sealed by a game-ending block by Dyson Daniels. Several key players returned from injury and the team played a complete game.
Trae Young has assumed a leadership role and it shows in the growth and maturity of the team. He tallied 19 assists last night and allowed players like Zaccharie Risacher and De'Andre Hunter to shine. The defense of Daniels has been nothing short of a revalation.
Many thought the Hawks' strategy was to try and replicate the Pacers' model and try to win games scoring in the 120-point range. But this season has been about clutch defense and timely shots as opposed to just heaving up shot after shot.