Why the result of the first play-in game suits the Atlanta Hawks
The Atlanta Hawks had the best result that they could have hoped for when the Brooklyn Nets took care of business in the first play-in game. They are now the seventh seed and the Hawks will take on the Cleveland Cavaliers if they can make it past the Charlotte Hornets.
The Hornets and the Hawks faced off four times in the regular season and split their matchups 2-all. Fortunately for the Hawks’ they have some true momentum on their side, winning 11 of their last 12 games at home.
Traditionally John Collins has been huge for the Hawks against the Hornets. Without him, there is going to be a greater emphasis on the talents of the bench mob to produce. The energy and effort Onyeka Okongwu brings to the court are going to be crucial for the matchup.
The Atlanta Hawks are also going to need to see playoff Trae Young
Of the three teams remaining in the play-in tournament, only the Hawks have experience in the furnace that is a playoff atmosphere. With the exception of Kevin Love on the Cavaliers squad, most of their players have not been to the playoffs.
This is a similar story to the Charlotte Hornets who would have had more postseason experience if Gordon Hayward had stayed healthy. Given how many Hawks are back from the last playoff run, they know what to expect and should be able to deal with the pressure better than the other two teams.
Had the Nets lost the first play-in game then the Hawks would have been battling against three former NBA champions. Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and Patty Mills have all experienced the ultimate honor in the NBA and all have contributed to their team’s glory.
Next. John Collins update gives the Hawks added incentive. dark
The Hawks are not yet guaranteed to get into the second play-in game but with the Nets winning, their past to the postseason just got a little easier. Sometimes the smallest opening is all that a team needs.