The Atlanta Hawks almost did something special against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday. They almost did, but they fell short and broke a seven-game win streak instead. Down over 30 points at halftime, the Hawks went on a major run, taking the lead, but eventually falling 117-107 at home. Now the team is looking to have a major bounce-back matchup as they prepare to face the New Orleans Pelicans who are dealing with injuries right now.
The Hawks certainly picked things up against the Timberwolves and proved they were capable of a comeback. Jeff Teague led the way with 24 points on 10-of-17 shooting which was an improvement from the past two games. The point guard managed to avoid a suspension after getting into a fight on the court during the final minutes of the game against Minnesota and will be starting on Wednesday. He will need to continue the improved shooting as the Hawks are shooting 51.2 percent in their last three games, but they are also allowing opponents to shoot that well too.
The Pelicans could be without Anthony Davis in the game due to a hip strain. The young star is listed as questionable for the matchup after having 17 points and seven rebounds in the previous game. X-rays were reportedly negative on his hip which is a good sign, but the Pelicans could opt to keep him out of the game. Davis was big in the first game against the Hawks despite Atlanta getting the win. He had 43 points and 10 rebounds, but the Hawks won 121-115. Without him, New Orleans will be at a loss.
The Pelicans managed to break their losing streak with a win over the Dallas Mavericks. Davis did not do much in the game as he only played 19 minutes which is a good sign for their matchup against Atlanta. The team shot 40.9 percent, but their defense is the issue as opponents are putting up a 48.5 percent shooting. The bench certainly helped get the first win putting up 71 points while the return of Omer Asik was huge for New Orleans as he will be critical if the Pelicans want to get a win streak going after starting winless on the season.
