The Atlanta Hawks engaged in a high-scoring battle against the formidable L.A. Clippers, concluding their homestand with a 149-144 loss.
Despite their efforts, the Hawks couldn’t extend their four-game winning streak against one of the NBA’s top teams. De’Andre Hunter led with 27 points off the bench, while Trae Young contributed 25 points and 12 assists.
The absence of Clint Capela, sidelined with an adductor strain, and the Clippers playing the second night of a back-to-back and concluding a seven-game road trip without their starting center Ivica Zubac, added challenges for both teams.
The Clippers showcased their offensive prowess early, especially in three-point shooting, establishing a 13-point lead in the second quarter.
The Hawks, however, managed to narrow the gap, leading 38-29 in the second quarter. Despite a closely contested fourth quarter, the Hawks faced challenges in two crucial stretches, ultimately succumbing to a 149-144 defeat.
Notable moments included a 7-0 run by the Clippers in the fourth quarter, with key contributions from Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. The Hawks struggled with live-ball turnovers, leading to Clipper points, while the Clippers’ defense, particularly Russell Westbrook, disrupted the Hawks’ offensive flow.
Crazy stat:
The Hawks are now 0-3 this season in games in which they score at least 143 points in regulation
— Wes (@bloghawk) February 6, 2024
In the end, the Hawks went toe-to-toe with the Clippers, but the game’s outcome hinged on free throws and turnovers in the fourth quarter. The Clippers’ efficient free-throw shooting (14-of-17) and limited turnovers (one) contrasted with the Hawks’ 11-of-14 free-throw shooting and three costly turnovers, contributing to the Clippers’ 47 points in the final quarter.
Despite the loss, the Hawks showcased impressive offensive performance, scoring 144 points on 53.7% shooting, 20-of-39 from three, and 22-of-27 from the free-throw line.
Young and Hunter delivered standout performances, but the Clippers’ overall efficiency, shooting 58% from the field, prevailed.
Coach Quin Snyder praised the team’s effort, emphasizing that competitive performances like these will keep the Hawks in future games. The Hawks concluded their six-game homestand with a 4-2 record, mostly against Western Conference opponents.
Looking ahead, the focus is on building momentum on the road, starting with a challenging matchup against the Boston Celtics, who boast a 23-3 home record.
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