ATLANTA — The Hawks rank third in the Eastern Conference standings. After a 4-1 start against overmatched opponents, they are 5-3 during a tougher stretch. The Hawks own two victories over the Bucks and one against the 76ers. It’s a good start for the Hawks, but is it sustainable?
I’m answering in the affirmative because, really, the Hawks (9-5) have underachieved. Before Tuesday’s games they ranked 15th in the NBA in offensive efficiency, according to Cleaning the Glass (garbage time excluded). The Hawks are much better than that. Trae Young’s poor shooting is a primary reason why the offense has been so inefficient. No one should believe that will continue.
The Hawks rank fifth in defensive efficiency, which probably overstates their true ability. But they don’t have to remain that good at getting stops to be a championship contender. Top 15 on defense and top five on offense should put them on that level. That’s realistic.
