5 games left in the season, and a 2-game lead over Miami (and 2.5 over Philly) in the race for the 4th spot. It's time to separate the wheat from the chaff, the men from the boys, and any other cliche you want to use.

One thing I will say about this Hawks team this year is, when the stakes have been the highest, the guys have come through. That doesn't mean they've won every big game they've played, or that they haven't lost some frustrating games. But in my opinion, every time they've been staring at a situation where the season could start to get away from them, they have stepped it up. Lose three straight in Texas? They win at Miami. Lose at Milwaukee and lose Joe Johnson for two games in the process? Marvin leads them to road wins in Minnesota and Charlotte. Home after a tough 1-4 trip out West? They beat Miami at home.

What is my point? The Hawks have only 5 games left in the season, and with home court advantage over the Sixers and Heat on the line, I have faith that they will come through. They have shown that they can get it done this season when it counts, even after frustrating losses or frustrating stretches of play.

The road hasn't been kind to Atlanta of late, as they've lost 5 straight away from Philips Arena. But just when you think the Hawks are going to zig, they zag. While it is frustrating that they sometimes seem to wait until their backs are against the wall before they bring the pain, I think that's exactly what we'll see them do tonight.

Toronto is playing out the string after the Knicks eliminated them on Sunday. They will be looking for any kind of motivation they can get as the season winds down, and the chance to keep the Hawks from homecourt should have them fired up tonight.

Tune in at 7:00 ET on FS South for all of the action.