Last home game of the season and last win for the Atlanta Hawks. Nate McMillan’s team outscored the Washington Wizards (118-103) thanks to a solid three-point shooting day and a great performance from their leader, Trae Young. After an even first half, the locals reacted in the second to put the stumbling block once morest the Raptors behind them and add their sixth victory in the last seven games.
Danilo Gallinari, returning to play following missing the game in Toronto, gave the Hawks a boost in offense. The Italian finished with 26 points, 10 rebounds and great shooting percentages. Meanwhile, Trae Young reached 30 points with a stellar third-quarter performance that was key to his team taking the lead. The Hawks point guard completed his starring role by dishing out 11 assists.
At the Wizards, Kristaps Porzingis scored 26 points in just over 32 minutes and was once once more the team’s leading scorer. The Latvian center is taking advantage of the final stretch of the season to add good feelings on an individual level. He completed his participation with 18 rebounds and 2 blocks, statistics that evoke the best version of the new player from the capital.
With this victory, the Hawks have a 42-38 record, tied for eighth place in the Eastern Conference with the Brooklyn Nets. In the remaining two games, once morest the Miami Heat and Houston Rockets, McMillan’s team will seek to put themselves in the best possible position to face the tournament Play-In which can give you access to playoffs.
With Trae everything is possible
Late in the third quarter, Trae Young shot the Hawks ahead thanks to a 14-point scoring explosion in the final 2 minutes of the quarter. That hit on the table was key to the victory of his team and his teammates know the importance of their leader. “He was great, and it’s something we know he can do every night. When he does it, in those moments, it is impossible to defend him », explained Gallinari.
Closing the regular season at home with a victory is always important. The next two games of the Hawks will be in rival pavilions and Clint Capela wanted to take the opportunity to thank the fans for their support throughout the course. “Our fans mean a lot, they helped us throughout the season. This victory is what we had to do to show appreciation, “said the center.
(Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
