
By:Lakisha "KB" Brooks
Atlanta, GA
After winning convincingly in game 7 against the Milwaukee Bucks, most believed the Hawks would come out in the second round in Game 1 against the Orlando Magic ready to play and on the top of their game. They did just that, but for only the first quarter. The Hawks displayed one of worst performances in Hawks playoff history losing to the Magic 114-71. In the first quarter, the Hawks come out the gate ready to play and looking like the team from Game 7 against the Bucks. The teams were virtually shot for shot in the first quarter, the Hawks even had a three point lead early in the quarter. The first quarter ended with the Magic leading the Hawks 25-23. Early in the second quarter, The Hawks and Magic were tied at 27-27. This was the last time it was close. The Magic then went on a 17-0 run and finished the half with a 53-33 lead on the visiting Hawks. The second half fared no better for Hawks, as they scored only 11 points in the third quarter and settled for a number of jump shots. This led to commanding 85-44 Magic lead after three quarters. The Hawks did manage to scored 27 points in the fourth quarter, but it was not enough as they lost 71-114. The 43 point loss is the worst in playoff history for the Hawks. The Hawks showed no heart and no will and want to win, according to many. They shot a lousy 34 percent from the field and were outrebounded 53-35. The Hawks' regular season leading scorer, Joe Johnson only scored 10 points, and Sixth Man of the Year, Jamal Crawford shot an awful 1 for 11 from the field and scored only five points. This was an embarrassing game for all associated with the Atlanta Hawks. While they were 1-3 against the Magic in the regular season, and the average margin of defeat for the Hawks versus the Magic was 22.3, we really did not expect this type of performance in Game 1. I thought with the addition of Jamal Crawford, the Hawks really had a chance to make a run for the Eastern Conference Finals; however, with the play from Game 1, I will have to reconsider. This may be a short series for the Magic. If the Hawks do not regroup, they may be looking at another second round sweep. The Cavaliers swept the Hawks last season in the second round of the playoffs.
The Hawks really suck
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