The Hawks look to defend home court after a 2-0 series start. The slow start was expected, as the Celtics have only lost nine games at home, and the Hawks match up terribly with them. Here are some takeaways from the first two games, as well as what the Hawks need to do to even out the series. 

Game One Takeaways

The Hawks had a messy first half in this game. They played terribly and were losing by 30 points by halftime. The Hawks could have shot abysmal numbers, only making five 3-pointers throughout the game and shooting 38.8% from the field. The Hawks played a much better half for the second half but ultimately fell short of the Celtics. If the Hawks played with the same energy and effort as they did in the second half, this game would have been more competitive. 

Game Two Takeaways

The Hawks started much better this game and were even up by ten points in the first half. The lead quickly disappeared, and the Hawks allowed the Celtics to barrage the paint, allowing 64 points in the paint. The Hawks also left Derrick White open, allowing him to score in bunches as the third option for the Celtics. On the bright side, the Hawks shot the 3-ball better this game, hitting 16 threes. Murray also came to play, scoring a career playoff high 29 points.

What’s Next?

Trae needs to make better decisions and move more off-ball. The non-Trae minutes in game two is when the Hawks cut into the lead. Trae’s shooting selection needs to improve. He cannot be chucking long 3-pointers at will. He must also take the floater, as the Celtics give it to him. He needs shots that he should be making. Derrick White has also made Trae uncomfortable, so having Trae move off-ball will help. If Trae continues in this slump, this series will end very quickly.

On the other hand, his backcourt duo is the only player that came to play in this series. He has been keeping the Hawks afloat, scoring. The Celtics are the better team, but seeing how the Hawks need to play to their true potential is disappointing. The Hawks need to win these two games at home and even the series if they want any chance of winning.