Struggling Hawks Aim to Halt Three-Game Slide Against Mavericks

Struggling Hawks Aim to Halt Three-Game Slide Against Mavericks

 

 

 

In a Friday night clash, the Atlanta Hawks (18-26) are set to take on the Dallas Mavericks (24-20) at the State Farm Arena, with the Hawks desperately seeking to break free from their three-game losing streak. Facing the Mavericks, who are positioned eighth in the competitive Western Conference, the Hawks aim to turn the tide and secure a crucial victory on their home court.

 

Atlanta, currently sitting at the 10th spot in the Eastern Conference, is enduring a challenging stretch with three consecutive losses. With an 8-12 record on their home court, the Hawks are eager to regroup and find their winning rhythm. Despite their recent struggles, the Hawks have displayed offensive prowess, averaging 119.6 points per game, ranking them sixth in the league. However, they face the defensive challenge posed by the Mavericks, who allow opponents to shoot at a 48.3% clip.

 

On the other side, the Dallas Mavericks are navigating a competitive Western Conference, holding the eighth position with a 24-20 record. With an 11-9 record on the road, the Mavericks have been consistent in their scoring, averaging 118.1 points per game. Led by standout performers such as Tim Hardaway Jr. and the dynamic Luka Doncic, the Mavericks pose a formidable challenge for the struggling Hawks.

 

In terms of head-to-head statistics, the Hawks and Mavericks have intriguing dynamics. The Hawks shoot at a 46.2% accuracy from the field this season, slightly lower than the 47.1% shooting efficiency of the Mavericks. While the Hawks give up an average of 122.7 points to opponents, the Mavericks score 118.1 points per game, creating a compelling matchup of offensive output and defensive resilience.

 

Key performers to watch in this matchup include Dejounte Murray for the Hawks, averaging an impressive 21.4 points per game along with 5.0 rebounds and 5.0 assists. Jalen Johnson has been a rising star for the Hawks, contributing 15.1 points and 8.6 rebounds over the last 10 games.

 

For the Mavericks, Tim Hardaway Jr. is a consistent scoring threat, averaging 18.1 points per game. Luka Doncic, the face of the franchise, adds versatility with an average of 20.6 points and 5.7 rebounds over the past 10 games.

 

In their recent ten-game stretches, the Hawks have struggled with a 4-6 record, averaging 109.4 points per game. Meanwhile, the Mavericks have maintained a more balanced record of 5-5, averaging 117.3 points per game. The outcome of this game will depend on how well the Hawks can counter the offensive firepower of the Mavericks and tighten their defense.

 

Injury updates for both teams add another layer to the matchup. The Hawks will be without key players such as De’Andre Hunter, Bruno Fernando, Mouhamed Gueye, Trae Young, Vit Krejci, and Wesley Matthews. The Mavericks, missing Kyrie Irving and Dwight Powell, will aim to capitalize on their available roster depth.

 

As the Hawks seek to halt their losing streak and the Mavericks aim to secure a road victory, basketball enthusiasts can anticipate an intense and closely contested battle at the State Farm Arena. The clash of styles and the determination of both teams will make this matchup a captivating spectacle for NBA fans.