Hawks Bounce Back to Take Game 2

The Hawks bounced back after tough game 1 to even their 2^nd round series against the Washington Wizards. Atlanta was able to take advantage of John Wall being out of the lineup as they took off to 106-90 victory.

The Hawks were able to impose their will on the Wizards early on to start the game. Jumping out to a 13-7 lead Atlanta never looked back against the boys from DC. The Hawks shot the ball well in the opening period showing no signs of that 4^th quarter rust from Game 1. Coach Bud’s team utilized excellent ball movement as they recorded 11 assists in the beginning period on 12 field goals. The team was led in scoring by Paul Milsap’s 7 points as they closed out the period up 28-20.

The Wizards worked their way at getting back in the game in the 2^nd period. The Hawks were up by as many 10 points early on in the session but couldn’t expand the lead as Washington was within 7 points by the half. The Wizards were able to stay close by hitting 6 of 11 from behind the arc during the 1^st half. They had 3 players with 9 points each to lead them in scoring.

The Hawks were able to continue their scoring efforts putting up 25 points in the 2^nd period. They were led by Paul Milsap’s 13 points and DeMarre Carroll’s 12 points in the first half. Atlanta maintained their lead forcing the Wizards into 9 turnovers in the 1^st half and doing well moving the ball around totaling 18 assist.

The 3^rd quarter was a little rough for the home team. As what seems to be a theme in this year’s playoffs, the Hawks had trouble getting the ball in the basket after the half. The Hawks had a stretch where they went 3 for 12 from the floor during the early part of the period. Wizards were able to make it a 1 point game a few times during the 3^rd session. Washington was paced by guards Bradley Beal and Ramon Sessions.