Atlanta Hawks vs. Charlotte Hornets: Matchup to Watch
The Atlanta Hawks and Charlotte Hornets will square off in a division battle that does not mean much to the Hornets. But what is the key matchup?
The Atlanta Hawks are in the playoffs for the tenth straight season. The Charlotte Hornets will be on the outside looking in during postseason play. Therefore, this game only has meaning for the Hawks, who will try to hold on to the fifth-seed in the Eastern Conference.
But that does not mean that this game comes without danger.
The Hornets are a well-coached team and the Hawks have shown tendencies to play down to lesser competition. And with Kemba Walker shut down for the remainder of the season, the crucial position battle in this game shifts to the wing.
Even though Nicolas Batum technically starts at shooting guard, he will likely be manned up with Taurean Prince at times during Tuesday’s game. And this battle will be very important to the outcome of the game.
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Batum is the Hornets’ best player, aside from Walker, and his ability to create will dictate whether they can win this game. The Frenchman has had a very solid season, averaging 15.4 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 5.9 assists. He can score, pass, and guard multiple positions, allowing him to impact games on several levels.
Batum will be the go-to guy for Charlotte and Prince will have to man him up. Prince’s energy and strength on the wing allow him to match up will on the defensive end against Batum. The rookie from Baylor has a rugged style on the defensive end and can frustrate and beat up Batum. If Prince does not allow Batum to establish a rhythm for himself, he will be stalling Charlotte’s offense.
On the offensive end, Prince has shown the ability to score in multiple ways. He has a quick first step and attacks the basket with ferocity. Prince also has the ability to spot up and knock down three-pointers. When both Prince and Tim Hardaway Jr. click on the wing, the Hawks’ offense is as good as it gets.
If Prince can shut down Batum, the Hornets will have a miserable offense. Without Walker, they have no go-to scorer and Batum is the only real creator that will play in Tuesday’s game. If Prince can also get something going offensively, Atlanta’s offense becomes much more explosive. This is not the sexiest matchup out there, but it is very important.
Next: The Future Is Bright For Taurean Prince
The Hawks need to hope for the Prince that dropped 20 on the Celtics several nights ago.