Hawks' secret weapon gave the front office a clear plan as the deadline approaches

The Atlanta Hawks returned home Monday afternoon, where they defeated the Indiana Pacers 132-116. 

Against a team with the second-worst record in the Eastern Conference, many would expect the Hawks to come away with an easy victory. The recent play from this Pacers team and Atlanta’s home record this season, however, proved that this would be no cakewalk. 

While both teams entered this in-conference matchup with a win in their back pockets, one happened to be entirely more impressive than the other. 

The Hawks knocking off the Devin Booker-less Suns at home was a much-needed victory, but the shorthanded Pacers made an absolute statement on Friday, narrowly defeating the defending champions on their home floor. 

Oklahoma City, while also down some key players, had just eight losses on the season coming into the matchup against Indiana. Despite their disappointing year, the resilient Pacers never seem to back down. 

Even without Tyrese Haliburton for the season, the Indiana offense is oftentimes difficult to contain. Rick Carlisle’s proven scheme results in consistent, high-quality looks for whoever is willing to let it fly. 

The next several matchups don’t favor the Hawks in the slightest, so in order to continue building momentum on the season, they needed their defense to stand strong and not let this in-conference matchup turn into a shootout.

What began as a nightmare for Atlanta quickly became an impressive defensive performance, thanks to an unexpected newcomer.

Christian Koloko has made all the difference for the Atlanta Hawks.

As great as Onyeka Okongwu's been on the offensive end this season, his defensive limitations have been as evident as ever since the beginning of the new year. Next to Jalen Johnson, who's also had a less than ideal defensive season, his weaknesses are exposed.

Enter Christian Koloko. Hawks fans didn't think much of it when it was announced that the team had signed him to a two-way contract, but they've since been forced to take notice.

He's become everything Atlanta's lacked. A reliable, defensive-minded, seven-foot center surrounded by a variety of on-ball creators and consistent outside shooters is an obvious recipe for success.

Against the Pacers, he saw 17 minutes of action, his highest as a member of the Hawks. He didn't waste a moment getting involved, making his presence felt on both ends of the floor. Indiana was unable to contain him, resulting in Atlanta pulling away for their third consecutive victory.

It was timely, as well. As soon as the Pacers' offense began to convert at their highest rate of the game, Koloko subbed in and put an immediate stop to the run.

His shot-blocking ability made them uncomfortable driving into the paint, while his screen-setting and play-finishing overwhelmed their top defenders.

Koloko finished the game with 12 points and three blocks, shooting 6/6 from the field.

While the two-way center may not be their long-term answer down low, it's more than clear what qualities Atlanta needs to prioritize in their pursuit of a difference-maker at the five.

The trade deadline is nearing. Buckle up, Hawks fans.