The Hawks hit the practice court again on Monday in preparation for Tuesday's Game 2 in Indiana. Atlanta shocked the Pacers Saturday in Game 1 and took a 1-0 lead in the series.
While the Pacers are eyeing some adjustments, the Hawks are focused on themselves and figure to make few if any changes heading into Game 2.
"We need to stick to what we do," said head coach Mike Budenholzer. It's a common theme that Budenholzer has stuck with for much of the season. The Hawks seldom adjust their starting lineup, rotations or tactics due to their opponent. They "do what they do" which is spread the floor, operate in the pick and roll and try to get up the floor in transition. Budenholzer and his staff want to force opponents to adjust to them and that is exactly what the Pacers are considering heading into Game 2.
Pacers' head coach Frank Vogel is reportedly considering assigning Paul George to try and slow down Hawks point guard Jeff Teague who finished with 28 points in Game 1. However, the Pacers must also make a decision in regards to their struggling center Roy Hibbert. The perimeter games of Pero Antic and Paul Millsap have put Hibbert in a difficult spot as a defender that is reluctant to leave the paint. So far the Hawks have taken advantage and made the Pacers pay.
Benching Hibbert probably isn't an option that Vogel will consider but going with a smaller lineup for stretches is an option. If Indiana continues to struggle the pressure will be on Vogel to adjust and that is exactly what Atlanta's coaching staff wants.