Atlanta Hawks: 4 Keys to Victory vs. Cavaliers

Oct 7, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard J.R. Smith (5) is guarded by the Atlanta Hawks forward Al Horford (15) during the first half at Cintas Center. Mandatory Credit: Frank Victores-USA TODAY Sports

IMPROVED PERIMETER DEFENSE

Something that has plagued the Atlanta Hawks both in the postseason and so far this regular season is their perimeter defense (or lack thereof). Part of Mike Budenholzer’s defensive philosophy is to try to create turnovers, so we often see a double team on a player trying to go for a steal. What happens many times is that the double team turns into a defensive lapse, with a shooter waiting on the wings, and subsequently sinking a three-point shot.

During last year’s ECF, J.R. Smith went off in Game 1, sinking 8 three-pointers. While some of his shots were undefendable, it still demonstrates how a lack of focus on the perimeter can lead to a three-point outburst. Other than their lack of rebounding prowess, the Atlanta Hawks porous defense on the perimeter is the biggest cause for concern in Saturday’s game.

Instead of trying to create a turnover to get a basket in transition, the Atlanta Hawks should focus on playing 2-3 man defense and to mitigate three’s. They can live with two-pointers inside the arc, but the game will not go well if J.R. Smith, Lebron James, or other Cav’s shooters can get open looks.

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