The Atlanta Hawks are in need of a road win in Cleveland to keep their season alive. Here are KL Chouinard's 5 keys to victory:
1) Push the pace.
With Kent Bazemore playing in place of Kyle Korver, the one advantage the Hawks gain is having a faster starting lineup. And since the Cavs are pumping out a massive and effective frontcourt of LeBron James, Tristan Thompson and Timofey Mozgov, Atlanta's best countermove is to play a fast, up-and-down game.
2) Hit the boards.
The Hawks were trying to be conscientious about protecting their defensive glass even before the series started. In spite of Atlanta's attention, the Cavaliers have 42 offensive rebounds through three games.
3) Protect the ball.
The Hawks forced Game 3 into overtime because they only turned the ball over seven times. Jeff Teague didn't have any turnovers at all. If the Hawks keep playing cleanly on offense, they will have a great chance at winning Game 4.
4) Try using Paul Millsap and Mike Muscala together with the backup point guard.
The Hawks aren't getting good ball movement and spacing when Teague is off the floor. Muscala would give the Hawks a center who can space things, while having Millsap set picks would add a secondary rim attacker who can also make a pass to whomever is open.
5) Embrace the chance to make history.
No NBA team has ever come back from a 3-0 deficit in a best-of-seven series. Why not relish the opportunity to be first?
Story by KL ChouinardTwitter: @AnaheimAmigos