The Atlanta Hawks are making up for some difficult times of late running out to a 59-41 lead at halftime. Atlanta came into the game struggling through a three-game home losing streak but have put on a clinic through the first two quarters.
Joe Johnson got the Hawks started off right putting up 16 points, five rebounds and five assists in the first half. Josh Smith added 13 points and five rebounds while Kirk Hinrich added 11 points off the bench hitting 5-6 shots. Atlanta hit over 54 percent of its shots in the first half and recorded 15 assists on 24 made baskets.
David West leads the Pacers with 11 points at the half but it has been a tough go of it for the rest of the Indiana starters. Danny Granger and Paul George both struggled in the first half with Granger scoring seven points on 2-8 shooting and George five points on 1-6. Tyler Hansbrough added six points off the bench for Indiana.
Atlanta's did a good job defensively picking up seven steals in first half that they were able to turn into easy baskets in transition. The Hawks have struggled of late coming out of halftime so the start of the third quarter will be key in securing the victory.
For more on this game Hawks fans should head over to Peachtree Hoops and Pacers fans should stop by Indy Cornrows. For more NBA news and analysis be sure to check out SB Nation's NBA Basketball page.