The Atlanta Hawks took advantage for the shorthanded Washington Wizards, holding on late to win Game 4 and even the series. Can the Hawks push the Wizards to the brink of elimination with a second straight win, or will Washington continue their road dominance?
Projected Starting Lineups
(1) Atlanta Hawks (60-22)
G Jeff Teauge – 15.9 ppg, 7.0 apg
G Kyle Korver – 12.1 ppg, 4.1 rpg
F DeMarre Carroll – 12.6 ppg, 5.3 rpg
F Paul Millsap – 16.7 ppg, 7.8 rpg
C Al Horford – 15.2 ppg, 7.2 rpg
(5) Washington Wizards (46-36)
G Ramon Sessions – 8.7 ppg, 1.8 apg
G Bradley Beal – 15.2 ppg, 3.8 apg
F Paul Pierce – 11.9 ppg, 4.0 rpg
F Nene – 11.0 ppg, 5.1 rpg
C Marcin Gortat – 12.2 ppg, 8.7 rpg
What to watch for:
Will John Wall play?
Wall is officially listed as a game-time decision for Game 5, and his availability could take the Wizards to another level. He was one of two point guards that averaged double-digit assists during the regular season (Chris Paul) and leads the playoffs in assists per game (12.6 – James Harden is second with 8.3), and Washington desperately misses that ball movement in their offense. If Wall can play – and be a threat – on the court, Washington will win this one easily.
Jeff Teague's Production
The Hawks’ offense relies on spacing and ball movement to create open shots for their shooters from the perimeter, but they're at the best when Teague is attacking and getting into the paint, creating high-percentage shots for himself and others. His play will be especially important if Wall returns to the court tonight, and Atlanta needs him to have another 20+ point, 5+ assist night to ensure a victory.
Prediction: Wizards win 95-93
Even if Wall doesn't return tonight, the Wizards have only lost two road games in the past two postseasons combined. I expect Washington to play well on the road again and win a close game.
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