Three Key Points from Hawks’ 124-97 Victory Against the Utah Jazz
For the second consecutive game, the Hawks maintained their opponent below the 100-point mark, asserting control throughout the match. The Utah Jazz never managed to take the lead, allowing the Hawks to secure a comfortable victory they greatly needed.
So, what were the primary insights gleaned from the Hawks’ triumph last night?
1. Defensive Excellence:
Despite criticisms of their defensive performance this season, the Hawks showcased a commendable defensive effort in their last two games. While their previous victory against Orlando might be downplayed due to the absence of Orlando’s key player, their ability to stifle the Utah Jazz, a formidable offensive team, is noteworthy. The Hawks’ defense limited Utah to a mere 37% shooting from the field and 29% from beyond the arc. Notably, star player Lauri Markkanen was contained to just 11 points. Rookie guard Kobe Bufkin also delivered another commendable defensive display, which shouldn’t go unnoticed. Hawks head coach Quin Snyder commended the team’s defensive efforts, emphasizing their improved cohesion and ability to contest shots effectively. While it’s premature to label this as a definitive trend for Atlanta, their recent defensive performances are encouraging.
2. Jalen Johnson’s Stellar Performance:
Jalen Johnson continues to impress with his stellar contributions on both ends of the court. In the absence of Trae Young, Johnson assumed a significant offensive role while also excelling as a top perimeter defender. Following his near-triple-double performance on Sunday, Johnson nearly replicated the feat last night, amassing 22 points, 13 rebounds, and six assists on an efficient 9-14 shooting. His comfort in orchestrating the offense and prowess in transition highlight his rapid development as one of the NBA’s most improved players.
3. De’Andre Hunter’s Bench Impact:
De’Andre Hunter’s consistent scoring off the bench has been a key feature for the Hawks, with him tallying 20 points in four of the last five games. Hunter’s role off the bench seems to be well-defined for the remainder of the season, and he’s thriving in it. Contributing 20 points on 6-10 shooting alongside five rebounds in the latest game, Hunter has also demonstrated defensive prowess during this stretch. His improved decision-making and quickness have been particularly noticeable over the past month, making his emergence off the bench a significant development for the team.
