Hawks’ looming double-header with Wizards will be decided by two vital factors

The Atlanta Hawks face an upcoming two-game set against the Washington Wizards on November 4 and 6, featuring a reunion with former franchise cornerstone Trae Young. Writer Ian Kearney argues that Atlanta must focus on two vital defensive priorities to secure victories against a deep Wizards squad featuring Young and Anthony Davis. Kearney highlights that stopping Young's interior floaters and pick-and-roll play is crucial to Atlanta's success.

Additionally, Kearney states that the Hawks must counter Washington's frontcourt size featuring Alex Sarr and Anthony Davis. To offset the matchup against the Wizards' tall tandem, Atlanta is expected to rely on Onyeka Okongwu, Jock Landale, and Jalen Johnson to handle the defensive workload near the basket.