Summary
The Atlanta Hawks entered Monday night’s matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers with little room for error. Not only was Atlanta an underdog, but they were without starting small forward De’Andre Hunter.
Cleveland’s superior offense does not need any help, but Hunter’s absence was a shot in their arm. Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, and Cedi Osman scored 23+ points each. Cleveland shot a blistering 52.6% from three.
Atlanta’s struggles extended to the offensive end of the floor. Dejounte Murray had his worst game of the season, shooting 4-18 from the field. Atlanta’s lack of wing depth elevated Aaron and Justin Holliday in the rotation, but unfortunately, the Holiday brothers shot a combined 1-9 from the field.
Tonight was a disappointing loss for Atlanta, but there are a few silver linings. Rookie AJ Griffin did well in his first career start, and Onyeka Okongwu excelled coming off the bench. Additionally, John Collins snapped out of his shooting slump.
The Hawks head back to Atlanta before facing Kevin Huerter and the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday night. Hawks coach Nate McMillan has his work cut out for him, as poor shooting and perimeter defense plague this team.
Stats
Hawks Leaders
Trae Young – 25 PTS, 10 AST
Onyeka Okongwu – 18 PTS, 10 REB
AJ Griffin – 17 PTS, 2 REB
Cavaliers Leaders
Donovan Mitchell – 29 PTS, 9 AST
Darius Garland – 26 PTS, 9 AST
Cedi Osman – 23 PTS, 3 REB
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