The Atlanta Hawks are a pretty healthy team going into their home opener against the New York Knicks on Friday night, with one exception. Veteran forward Wesley Matthews remains out with a mild right calf strain.
Atlanta came in as a small favorite over the Hornets and while the Hawks led for most of the first half, the Hornets crawled their way back into it and stayed ahead for most of the game. Atlanta guards Trae Young and Dejounte Murray shot a combined 7-33 and only hit one three-pointer between them. De'Andre Hunter made no impact plays on either end of the floor, and AJ Griffin could not hit a shot from behind the arc. In my view, the lone bright spot from the game was the play of Jalen Johnson, who finished with a career-high 21 points.
While last night is surely frustrating, remember how long of a season this is going to be.
The Hawks will get a chance to right the ship tomorrow in the home opener against the New York Knicks. The Knicks and the Hawks have developed a rivalry since the two teams meeting in the playoffs a few seasons ago and this could be another good matchup between two teams looking to make the top six in the Eastern Conference. In tomorrow's matchup, look for improved three-point shooting and better play from their two star guards, Trae Young and Dejounte Murray.
Be sure to tune into AllHawks.com for the latest coverage
Follow Jackson on Twitter: @jacksoncaudell
Like and Follow us on Facebook: All Hawks
More Atlanta Hawks Related Content:
Quin Snyder Breaks Down Hawks Rotation at Forward and starting lineup
More must-reads: