Atlanta Hawks vs. Orlando Magic: 5 Questions Ahead of Mexico City Game
ORLANDO - The Orlando Magic is tipping off from Mexico City tonight to take on the Atlanta Hawks.
To learn more about the Magic's opponent, we spoke with All Hawks writer Jackson Caudell.
1. The Hawks just had a four-game win streak snapped. What prompted the success and what does the team need to do to get back to it?
The offense was the catalyst for the recent winning streak. Dejounte Murray is playing really well right now and the Hawks are near the top of the NBA in points per game and field goal percentage and that is with Trae Young not shooting well and the team not shooting well from three-point range. The emergence of Jalen Johnson has also been huge for the team and they are one of the better rebounding teams in the NBA.
2. If the Hawks win Thursday, what would be the reason why?
I think if the Hawks win on Thursday it will be because of their offense doing just enough against what has been a really good Magic defense so far. Young has been due for a breakout game and I think tomorrow night is where you see it.
Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young and Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero
Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports
3. What’s one thing people should know about the Hawks that they couldn’t find in a box score?
People should know that they have one of the most reliable benches in the NBA. Bogdan Bogdanovic, Onyeka Okongwu, and Saddiq Bey is a great bench to have and they complement the staters well.
4. What's a matchup that you are looking forward to seeing?
I want to see the Hawks backcourt of Young and Murray going against the guards the Magic have. The Hawks guards are what makes the entire offense go and they are going to be challenged on Thursday night against Orlando.
5. What's your prediction for Thursday's game?
I am going with the Hawks to win because I just think their offense is going to score, no matter how good the Orlando defense is. They had a bad shooting night against Oklahoma City on Monday and I don’t see them doing that again, plus I think Young is due for a big performance. Atlanta wins 113-106.
