The Atlanta Hawks are preparing for a crucial matchup against the Boston Celtics tonight, aiming to break their two-game losing streak. After a strong start with wins over Denver and Golden State, the team has struggled defensively in recent games against the Lakers and the Blazers. This inconsistency on defense is a concern as they face one of the league’s top teams.

Throughout their recent road trip, the Hawks have been without key players Zaccharie Risacher and Kristaps Porzingis, and this absence will continue tonight against the Celtics. The latest injury report confirms that both players remain sidelined due to their respective injuries—Porzingis with left Achilles tendinitis and Risacher with a left knee bone contusion. Additionally, Dyson Daniels was added to the injury report last night and will miss tonight’s game.

With Daniels out, CJ McCollum will make his first start as an Atlanta Hawk. The Hawks’ starting lineup includes:

• G: Nickeil Alexander-Walker
• G: CJ McCollum
• F: Vit Krejci
• F: Jalen Johnson
• C: Onyeka Okongwu

On the other side, the Celtics have also adjusted their starting lineup due to Peyton Pritchard being unavailable. Their lineup features:

• G: Baylor Scheierman
• G: Derrick White
• F: Jaylen Brown
• F: Sam Hauser
• C: Neemias Queta

This matchup presents a challenge for both teams, but the question remains: who will come out on top?

Looking at the Atlanta Hawks’ overall performance this season, their record stands at 20-23. However, their advanced statistics reveal a mixed picture. Despite some struggles, the team has shown strength in several areas. Here’s a breakdown of their performance:

Offensive Metrics:
– 8th in points per game

– 7th in field goal percentage (FG%)

– 6th in three-point percentage (3P%)

– 24th in free throw percentage (FT%)

– 25th in total rebounds (26th in offensive rebounds, 17th in defensive rebounds)

– 1st in assists per game

– 16th in turnovers per game

– 19th in offensive rating

While the offense has been consistent, the absence of key players like Risacher and Porzingis has affected the team’s ability to maintain momentum. The Hawks still hold a strong position in assists and shooting efficiency, but their rebounding and free-throw accuracy need improvement.

Defensive Metrics:
– 25th in points allowed

– 23rd in field goal percentage allowed

– 13th in three-point percentage allowed

– 26th in rebounds allowed

– 5th in steals

– 17th in blocks

– 16th in defensive rating

The Hawks’ defense has shown flashes of potential, particularly against Portland, but it lacks consistency. Their performance often depends on the opponent, making it difficult to rely on them in high-stakes games.

Meanwhile, the Boston Celtics present a different challenge. While their counting stats may not highlight elite performance, their advanced metrics tell a different story. Here’s how they stack up:

Offensive Metrics:
– 14th in points per game

– 12th in field goal percentage (FG%)

– 9th in three-point percentage (3P%)

– 11th in free throw percentage (FT%)

– 12th in total rebounds (6th in offensive rebounds, 18th in defensive rebounds)

– 29th in assists

– 1st in turnovers per game

– 2nd in offensive rating

The Celtics may not have a single standout skill, but their well-rounded approach has made them one of the league’s most effective offenses. Their ability to score from multiple areas and avoid turnovers gives them an edge.

Defensive Metrics:
– 2nd in points allowed

– 3rd in field goal percentage allowed

– 23rd in three-point percentage allowed

– 5th in rebounds allowed

– 20th in steals

– 8th in blocks

– 15th in defensive rating

Although the Celtics’ defense isn’t as dominant as it was during their championship run, it remains a formidable unit. Their ability to limit scoring and control the boards makes them a tough opponent for any team.

As the Hawks look to turn their season around, they’ll need to find ways to improve their defense and get contributions from all players on the roster. With the Celtics entering the game with a strong defensive presence and a balanced offense, this matchup could be a deciding factor in the Hawks’ playoff aspirations.