Atlanta Hawks: 3 keys to victory against the limping New Orleans Pelicans

ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 06: Trae Young #11 of the Atlanta Hawks reacts during the first half against the New Orleans Pelicans at State Farm Arena on April 6, 2021 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) /

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Atlanta Hawks (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) /

Atlanta Hawks key to victory No. 2: Don’t sleep on the addition of Devonte’ Graham

It would be easy to look at Devonte’ Graham, the Pels second-leading scorer with 17.8 points per game, and think nothing of him being with New Orleans. But, especially in light of Williamson’s absence, he provides Ingram with a running mate capable of putting up points in bunches.

That didn’t happen in the two games that he faced the Hawks as a member of the Charlotte Hornets last season.

Graham averaged just 13 points to go with (a solid) seven assists. But some of that can be attributed to the way the Hornets played with LaMelo Ball at the helm. It was not that long ago that Graham averaged 19.0 points in two games against Atlanta back in 2019.

The 6-foot-1 guard is also shooting a career-high 43.4 percent from the floor and getting to the free-throw line more than he has in years past.

However, Graham is also averaging a career-worst 3.3 turnovers per game. Trae Young is showing more active hands to start the year, averaging a career-high 1.3 steals per game — while also turning the ball over fewer times per game than he ever has.

Graham presents a good opportunity to create extra possessions for a Hawks offense that is still rounding into form. As long as it doesn’t lead to foul trouble, of course.

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