Hawks’ upcoming back-to-back presents major challenge on both ends

The Atlanta Hawks face a challenging back-to-back set at State Farm Arena against the Miami Heat on October 28 and the Cleveland Cavaliers on October 29. After dropping to a 2-2 record following consecutive losses to the Houston Rockets, Atlanta aims to overcome size disadvantages against formidable interior opponents. Writer Michael Kobrinsky argues that improved perimeter shooting and enhanced physicality are essential to counter the elite frontcourts of both upcoming opponents.

Atlanta shot under 30 percent from beyond the arc in both games against Houston, creating spacing issues for slashers like Jalen Johnson and Dyson Daniels. The writer notes that frontcourt players must improve their three-point efficiency against Miami's pairing of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo, followed by Cleveland's duo of Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.