Atlanta Hawks vs. Boston Celtics Preview: Atlanta looking to bounce back from Pistons loss

Feb 26, 2014; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Celtics power forward

(30) shoots against Atlanta Hawks power forward

(42) and point guard

(0) in the second half at TD Garden. The Celtics defeated the Halks 115-104. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

After a weak showing against the Pistons last night, the Atlanta Hawks (34-43) have a chance to get back in the win column with their last game against the Boston Celtics (23-54).

While the Hawks haven’t clinched the playoffs, they should be as close to a guarantee as you can get in sports at this point–take that for what you will. The Celtics are going through a rough stretch at this point, losing 13 of their past 14 games and eight straight. However, the last time they played was Saturday so there’s a decent chance they could catch Atlanta off guard on a back-to-back situation.

Despite the talent differences between these two teams, Atlanta is going to need an improved effort from DeMarre Carroll, Kyle Korver and Pero Antic. Tuesday night, the three shot 2-10, 4-16 and 4-14 respectively. Aka, not that good. Paul Millsap and Jeff Teague paved the way for the team with Millsap recording another double-double, and Teague missing out on his own by an assist.

Rajon Rando should be the player to watch for with Boston, as he’s had quite a few days to rest. He could provide a few match up problems for Teague and as our own Brad Rowland says it might be more interesting when Dennis Schroder comes in against him:

"However, the more intriguing sight may be when youngster Dennis Schröder takes the floor against the player that many have compared him to during his young career."

Vegas has the Hawks as 7.5-point home court favorites in this one. Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@ATLBeatBlog) and check back after the game for a full recap. Start time and TV info below:

Radio: 92.9 FM (Atlanta Flagship), Atlanta Hawks Radio Network Affiliates

Live Stream: League Pass Broadband