The Atlanta Hawks continue to struggle, as the team is currently in the midst of the NBA’s longest losing streak. On Sunday evening, Lloyd Pierce and company have the opportunity to stop the bleeding, though, as the Hawks play host to Kemba Walker and the Charlotte Hornets at State Farm Arena.
As of Sunday morning, the Hawks enter this particular contest as eight-point underdogs and, while that isn’t everything, it is instructive as to the expectations on both sides. Charlotte doesn’t boast overwhelming talent but, at the moment, the Hornets have the feel (and record) of a playoff team and the work of Walker is the biggest reason for their early-season success.
With that in mind, the point guard match-up between Walker and Atlanta’s duo of Trae Young and Jeremy Lin will be interesting to monitor. It is a safe bet to think that the Hawks could deploy players of wing size (i.e. DeAndre’ Bembry or Kent Bazemore) to defend Walker but, at times, the point guards will be tasked with that match-up and, if Walker is unchecked, it could be a long night for the Hawks.
Injury-wise, the Hawks may be without Bazemore in this game, as the veteran wing is listed as questionable after exiting Friday’s game with a sprained ankle. More information will be available as the day progresses on Sunday but, for now, the Hawks may be short-handed on the wing, with Kevin Huerter potentially in line for another start in the event Bazemore can’t go.
Stay tuned throughout the day for the latest from State Farm Arena and be sure to note the early tip-off time on this fine Sunday.
Game Date/Time: Sunday, Nov. 25, 6:00 pm ET
Location: State Farm Arena
TV: Fox Sports Southeast
Radio: 92.9 The Game (Atlanta); Hawks Radio Network
Streaming: Fox Sports Go; NBA League Pass (out of market)