AJC: Hawks 102, Pacers 92

[Hawksquawk]

The Pacers couldn't stop Josh Smith. (AP Photo)

Indianapolis–If their defensive energy is going to vary depending on how often their shots go in, then at least the Hawks are humming on offense more often than not. Facing a physical opponent, the Hawks were crisp, patient and effective scoring the ball and improved to 5-1 on the road.

– Smoove was inside, outside and everywhere in between, making his jumpers and getting to the line. Bibby made the Pacers for collapsing on Smoove, then handed out dimes when the defense ran at him. Al damaged the Pacers with pick-and-pops in the fourth quarter. Marvin was efficient. J.J. wasn’t hitting so he handed out assists.

– Clearly one early trait of the Hawks under L.D. is that they really are buying into moving the ball and spreading around the scoring. “He puts new wrinkles in probably every week,” J.J. said. “I think that keeps us fine-tuned to what he wants and what we are doing out there.”

– “They’ve got a lot of people you have to …

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