Takin’ notes in the Eastern Conference
Smoove sailin'
Already up 2-0 against the Bucks, the Hawks have matched all their counterparts in the East. Each series entitles different paces, different clutch performers, and different atmospheres, but don’t think the Hawks aren’t aware of what Boston, Cleveland and Orlando have done thus far. Simply stated, the Hawks are playing with as much intensity as any other playoff team.
Now, it’s naïve to assume this same focus will carry over to another best-of-seven series, much less three more, but this string of two games have proven this is the year the Hawks think they can actually prove themselves as elite. Tonight, the Cavs dropped a game to the Bulls in Chicago (UPDATE: I hear some rolling thunder, too) and the Magic head to Charlotte Saturday, where the Bobcats were an impressive 31-10. The Hawks should know all too well not to underestimate teams in on their home courts (’08 playoffs, anyone?), but the Cavs game tonight can definitely be used as a reminder.
Looking ahead to Game 3 on Saturday, as well as whatever other series the Hawks may play in this season, one thing those birds have to remember to play with is purpose. Letting up on their intensity and game plan will immediately create a deficit in the playoffs, because the further into a series the harder it gets. Let’s show the Bucks we can hunt up North, too; let’s getta sweep.
That concludes my motivational moment.
Night.
