3 Takeaways from Atlanta Hawks’ Loss to Rockets

3. Sticking with small ball

Lloyd Pierce went back to a small ball starting five tonight, starting 6-8 power forward John Collins at the five.

Collins – who has played well in the five hole for small spurts over his career – transition more into a long term center was something I floated here a few weeks back, and continued to play well in that role tonight.

JC grabbed 14 rebounds, blocking four shots with just two fouls, which is big considering the Rockets’ ability to draw fouls.

Collins creates an interesting mismatch on the offensive side of things, and Capela never really felt comfortable guarding him out on the perimeter.

Outside of Collins, De’Andre Hunter also played up a spot, starting at the power forward position with middling success.

With Jabari Parker sidelined for at least two weeks, and John Collins playing center, the Hawks don’t really have a true power forward at the moment, although Vince Carter can and has played the four under Pierce.

Unless the Hawks acquire Andre Drummond, Steven Adams or any other center at the trade deadline, they should consider sticking with the small ball look for now.