The wins over the Pistons and Hornets were nice, don't get me wrong. But beating the Jazz always makes me happy, even more so when it snaps their 12-game winning streak.

Over the years, Utah has been a team that has tormented Atlanta repeatedly. From winning 15 straight in Utah to the 21-point comeback at Philips Arena two years ago, they have managed to get the best of the Hawks on a pretty consistent basis.

Tonight's win, coupled with last year's 116-111 home victory, shows that the tide is turning. Yes, Utah was playing the second night of a back-to-back, but that didn't stop them from taking a lead into the 4th quarter. The Hawks won this game with defense and determination, out-willing the Jazz down the stretch and finishing the contest on a 13-4 run.

With Marvin Williams' status still unclear, it's good to see his teammates stepping up to keep the team's chances of hosting a playoff series in good shape. Josh Smith has been particularly impressive, tallying three straight double-doubles and igniting the crowds with several timely blocks and highlight-reel dunks.

There are still 18 games to play in this 2008-09 regular season, and nothing has been won yet. But if the Hawks can continue to protect their turf like they have in beating three straight playoff teams (free breakfast!) in the last five days, it may not matter what the opposition does behind them.