Here is what I liked about tonight's game. The Hawks took control over an overmatched opponent early, and never let them really have a chance to win the game. To LA's credit, they never let Atlanta turn the game into a true blowout, but at the same time the Hawks' lead was never in danger after both teams got off to a sluggish start.
Historically the Hawks have had a tough time maintaining intensity against lesser opponents, but tonight they showed from very early on they meant business.
No one illustrated that intensity more tonight than Josh Smith. Smoove has been taking a lot of heat lately for his shot selection, and it appeared tonight he was intent on being aggressive and getting his shots closer to the basket where he is infinitely more successful.
Smith finished the night with a team-leading 26 points on 10-15 shooting, and his energy was evident early on and spurred his teammates to shrug off the effects of last night's disappointing loss in Phoenix.
With the win the Hawks snap a four-game losing streak and give themselves a chance to come away with a winning record on this three-game road swing, with the rubber match coming Friday night in Golden State.
It's only been a few days, but still - it feels good to be back in the win column.
