Hawks favored by 7 points but that means nothing. At least the Hawks have some consistent scorers this year thus far.

I agree with playing hard defense with a purpose. Deflections is a key stat and I too would love to see a defensive identity established like 82 wrote. And, I love to see some of the stuff that Hawking was writing too. Defense should be a playing time decider at this point. You would ideally like to have both with each player but that's a work in progress.

Tolafree earned more minutes in the last game and needs to bring that defensive intensity every night. Sims has to play good minutes as he has been good all year. Kai and Phillips need to play good minutes too. The bigs have to step up and claim their spots/time. The other wings have to earn their time now. Each can score on a given night now who will step up their overall game?

Hawks have to get a split on this trip and hopefully come out good tomorrow. If they do and build momentum, they have a much better shot on Saturday. I'm looking for improved play regardless and it starts on defense. And, they have to finish off defensive possessions with a board too. Guys have to play hard and pursue the ball.