Why Can't The Hawks Crash The Party?

It was assumed by every NBA analyst that only 5 teams (Lakers, Spurs, Celtics, Cavs and Magic) had a shot at the NBA title this year.

10 games into the season it’s way too early to read into things but at 7-2 the Atlanta Hawks are certainly making the case that they are a legit title contender.

What makes the Hawks so dangerous?

• They can play any style of basketball.  They have a conventional lineup (Bibby, JJ, Williams, Smith, Horford) they can go small with three guards (Bibby, Crawford, JJ, Smith, Horford) JJ can even play the point if need be.
• Their core (Williams, Smith, Horford) are all 23 years old.  It seems like any, or all of them can make the leap at any time.  Early in the season J-Smoove has been a monster.  He’s cut down on his outside shooting and become the player we all hope he would become.  His FG% has soared to .578 (up from .492 last year)
• They have solid rotational pieces with Teague, Evans and Pachulia coming off the bench.
• Joe Johnson is a star and no one realizes it.

You can make the case that a team like the Suns early season success is a bit of a mirage but it’s much more difficult to make that case with the Hawks.  They have the makings of a team that can contend for the title.

Related posts:

1. Thoughts From Wednesday Night in the NBA
2. 2009 NBA Mock Draft 5.0