Tonight's game against the Clippers is absolutely crucial to the team's
playoff chances. LA isn't playing particularly well, but they handed the Hawks a
loss out in LA back in January behind newly unstoppable rookie Al Thornton's 33.
What I'm saying is, the Hawks should win, but if they show up thinking the game
is already over, they could be in trouble.
It will be very interesting to see how the team reacts to Wednesday's loss to
Houston. Will they be resilient and fighting-mad, knowing they could have won
the game and out to prove their mettle? Or will they let the loss linger and
come out with the game still on their minds?
Either way, tonight's game is particularly important as the team heads out on
a possibly season-course-altering three-game road trip afterwards. At New York
on Sunday, at Washington on Monday, and at New Jersey on Wednesday. All three
are winnable, but none are guaranteed. I really think how the team fares in the
next four games will show us whether or not this playoff push is serious
business or a mirage.
Come down to Philips to help give the guys a lift and get them back on the
good side of the playoff standings.
Here are the other games to take note of tonight:
Philadelphia at Chicago
Desired Outcome: A pivotal game, as it features two of the teams the
Hawks are in direct competition against. It's a shame both teams can't lose, but
if I had to choose a winner, I'll say Philly, since the Sixers are already ahead
of us while the Bulls are right there next to us in the battle for the 8th spot.
Probable Outcome: The Bulls beat the Jazz at home on Wednesday, and I
expect them to defend their home court again tonight.
Indiana at Dallas
Desired Outcome: Dallas is 28-4 at home this season, and I don't expect
that to change this evening.
Probable Outcome: Mavs in a rout.
Charlotte at Houston
Desired Outcome: The Bobcats are putting themselves firmly in the race
for the playoffs, winning five of their last six. Houston can push them back
towards the pack with their 21-straight win tonight, which would give them the
second-longest winning streak in NBA history.
Probable Outcome: Since this game is in Houston, I don't see any reason
to bet against #21.
