The Atlanta Hawks fell behind early and couldn't completely close the gap in the second half eventually falling 85-82 to the Golden State Warriors. The loss is Atlanta's ninth in its last 13 games.
The Hawks should look in the mirror when looking for answers for this loss. The Hawks were just 16-26 from the free throw line and missed a number of point blank chances in the paint during the second half. Atlanta came out stagnant on offense settling for long jump shots and allowing the Warriors to control the boards and to get out and run for easy baskets.
The Hawks held their own in the second half but couldn't completely climb out of the hole that dug in the first. David Lee's lay in with just 30 seconds remaining put the Warriors up for good. Atlanta had a chance to tie but Jeff Teague missed a floater in the lane and the Warriors sealed things from the free throw line.
Joe Johnson led the Hawks with 18 points but was just 6-17 from the field after starting 1-8. Jeff Teague finished with 15 points and four assists. Josh Smith was one of three Hawks players to log a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds but was just 5-20 from the field. Zaza Pachulia turned in a great effort finishing with 13 points and 16 rebounds while Marvin Williams added 11 points and 11 boards.
Monta Ellis led the Warriors with 24 points and eight assists. David Lee added 22 points and 12 boards. Ekpe Udoh finished with 12 points and eight rebounds and Nate Robinson pitched in 10 points off the bench.
For more on this game Hawks fans should check out Peachtree Hoops while Warriors fans should stop by Golden State Of Mind. For more news and analysis from around the NBA head on over to SB Nation's NBA Basketball page.