Game Preview
The Los Angeles Lakers and Atlanta Hawks are set for an intriguing matchup on Friday night, both teams coming off losses. While the Hawks have the edge in overall season performance, the Lakers have been trending upward in recent games.
Over the full season, Atlanta holds slight advantages in scoring (118.4 points per game to LA's 111.9) and shooting percentages across the board. The Hawks have knocked down nearly 35% from three and converted just under 79% of their free throws, outpacing the Lakers in both categories. However, LA's defense has been stingier, allowing 114.3 points compared to Atlanta's 119.4.
But the Lakers' recent form suggests a potential shift in momentum. Over their last 10 games, they've averaged 112.9 points on a blistering 47.6% shooting, including 36.6% from deep - a marked improvement from their full-season numbers. Their defense has tightened as well, holding opponents to 111.2 points per contest during this stretch. Atlanta, meanwhile, has cooled slightly, hovering around 47.8% from the field and 37.6% on threes over the same span.
The rebounding battle could prove pivotal, as the Hawks have consistently owned the boards, grabbing nearly 48 rebounds per game over their last 20 outings. The Lakers have struggled in this area, averaging just 41.5 boards during that same stretch. Atlanta's ability to control the glass and generate extra possessions could tilt the scales in their favor.
While both teams have stumbled recently, the Hawks' 80% win rate over their last 5 games stands out, fueled by a scorching 49.9% shooting clip and a stingy 118.6 points allowed. If Atlanta can recapture that sizzling form, the Lakers may struggle to keep pace. But if LA's recent surge continues, this could be a tightly contested battle between two evenly matched squads seeking to halt their current losing streaks.