Atlanta Hawks vs. Los Angeles Lakers Preview: Hosting Kobe

After a disappointing loss to the Cavaliers this weekend, the Atlanta Hawks will look to defend their perfect 4-0 record in Philips Arena against Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday evening.

While Bryant is still a star in the league, his Lakers have been terrible at just 1-9 on the season, with the league’s worst defense –allowing 112.1 points per game.

After jumping up to No. 14 in SI’s NBA rankings, the Hawks will look to continue making strides with their pass-heavy, team-oriented offense.

DeMarre Carroll is listed as questionable for Atlanta in this one, as the forward is continuing to rehab from a groin strain. He has missed the past three games for the Hawks, which has definitely had an impact on the team’s perimeter defense. Here’s what coach Mike Budenholzer had to say about Carroll’s progress according to Chris Vivlamore, with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution:

"“I wouldn’t say there is any significant update,” coach Mike Budenholzer said after Monday’s practice.“We’ll see how he is in another 24 hours,” Budenholzer said."

With that, the Hawks will likely lean on the services of Thabo Sefolosha and Mike Scott a bit more than usual for the fourth straight game.

Still, given the Lakers lack of a defense, the Hawks should be considered heavy favorites in this one. It would be a big surprise indeed if the perfect home record was broken and the Lakers franchise-worst start to the season to a turn for the better Tuesday night.

Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@ATLBeatBlog) for more Atlanta Hawks information leading up to the game and check back after the final buzzer for a full recap.

Date: November 18, 2014

Tip-Off Time: 7:30 p.m.

TV Channel: SportSouth, NBA League Pass ($)

Radio: 92.9 The Game (Local in Atlanta), Atlanta Hawks Radio Network Affiliates

Live Stream: League Pass Broadband