Atlanta Hawks: 4 Keys to Victory vs. Cavaliers

Oct 27, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks head coach Mike Budenholzer (center) talks with guard Kyle Korver (26), guard Thabo Sefolosha (25) and guard Jeff Teague (0) during a break from their game against the Detroit Pistons in the third quarter at Philips Arena. The Pistons won 106-94. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

THABO SEFOLOSHA’S DEFENSE AND KYLE KORVER’S SHOOTING

During last year’s Eastern Conference Finals, the Atlanta Hawks were without their best defender, Thabo Sefolosha. When Sefolosha suited up for the Atlanta Hawks last season, they were an astounding 43-9. Without him, well, they weren’t nearly as good. Sefolosha’s return from injury is key for the Atlanta Hawks this season, and is even more important with Kent Bazemore out.

Whether starting or coming off the bench, Thabo Sefolosha’s defense on Lebron James is probably the biggest key to victory against the Cavaliers. If he can slow down James, even slightly, the Atlanta Hawks stand a good chance to secure a victory on Saturday.

Kyle Korver did not play in Games 3 and 4 of the Conference Finals last year after suffering an ankle injury in Game 2. His shooting was missed in the final two games of the series. Now that he is back and fully recovered, his shooting is key to the Atlanta Hawks success in this contest. He will no doubt attract much attention defensively from the Cavaliers, which is important in giving other players open shots on the offensive end.

Next: Atlanta Hawks Schedule: About to Get Even Tougher

If Korver can knock down 4-5 three’s on Saturday, the Atlanta Hawks offense opens up. Korver is the key to Atlanta’s offensive success, and if he can get some good looks, Saturday’s game looks more favorable.