Sizing up Hawks vs Nets Round 1 Playoff Series
By Keith Holt
The Hawks open up the playoffs in the familiar 1 vs 8 seed match-up today. What’s different is that this time Atlanta is sitting on the top side of this bracket and not looking to play spoiler but now the role of contender. Playing the role of spoiler will be the Brooklyn Nets of whom the Hawks have not had too much a of a problem with this season, going 4-0 against the Nets.
Brooklyn will be motivated to change their luck in the playoffs and Brook Lopez has been playing some very good basketball down the stretch for the Nets. They will be motivated to try to salvage what is left of a disappointing season. That being said the Hawks have some key advantages that will allow them to dispose of their 1st round opponent without too much strain. Here are a few key match-ups to look for..
Points Guard Showdown: Deron Williams was once in the conversation as one of the elite point guards in the NBA. As of late he has not really been talked about in that ilk. On the other hand our own Jeff Teague is emerging into a star at the position. A first year All-Star this season Teague is looking to lead this team to the next step. Jeff this season versus the Nets has averaged 14 points and big 9 assist while conversely Williams has only managed 9 points and 6 assist against Atlanta. The Hawks also have held Williams to 38% shooting during their games this season.
Advantage: Hawks
The Game In The Middle: The Nets have powered by Brook Lopez heading into the end of the season. The last 10 games of the season Brook has averaged 20 points and 9 rebounds per contest. A 7 footer who can shoot from the mid-range and go inside would be dangerous against any team. The Hawks are not worried and proven they can withstand a good inside presence. The duo of Paul Milsap and Al Horford has taken on the best in the league all season. What other teams have not done is shown the ability to handle the both of them. The two of them both made the All-Star team this season and maybe the best inside duo. Combine that with the Hawks throwing in bodies like Elton Brand, Pero Antic and Mike Scott off the bench at the Nets they will be overwhelmed in the post.
Advantage: Hawks
Soaring on The Wings: The Nets will look to our good friend “Captain Isolation” Joe Johnson for much of their scoring from the guard position. Although Joe was a big part of Atlanta making the playoffs in the first couple of years during the 8 year streak he also played a big part in the team not doing much in the postseason. Expect more of the same in his new home in Brooklyn. Joe will also have to deal with one of the elite perimeter defenders in the league in DeMarre Carroll. Carroll is not only a defensive presence as he averages 12 points per game in addition to him locking up some of the league’s best wing players. The Hawks also provide sharp shooting Kyle Korver who will be looking to light it up this post season.
Advantage: Hawks
Predictions: Atlanta takes the series in 5 games. Most people are calling for the clean sweep but I think that Brooklyn has a slim shot at stealing game 3 at home but that’s about it. The Hawks should be able to dispatch this team and have a little rest waiting on their 2nd round opponent.