Hawks vs Pacers preview: Atlanta looks to keep winning streak alive against Indiana

The Atlanta Hawks haven't won seven games in a row since the 2009 season. They will try to equal that mark Monday night when they hit the road to face the Indiana Pacers.

Atlanta has won six straight and eight of their last nine to climb to the top of the Southeast Division standings. The schedule hasn't been particularly tough during the first part of the season, but they are winning the games they are supposed to and for the most part looking good doing so. The Hawks are among the league leaders in offensive rating and their defensive rating is improving during the winning streak.

Atlanta set the tone early defensively on Sunday allowing the Nuggets just 36 first half points and holding them to 32 percent shooting. The Hawks took the foot of the gas in the third quarter somewhat but were still able to win by a comfortable margin.

As expected, its been a tough season for the Pacers who have battled injury from the outset. Indiana comes into the game with a 7-13 record and having lost four straight games. Despite their record, Indiana is still a good defensive team and is capable of clamping down on opponents. The Pacers are eighth in the league in opponent scoring allowing just 96.3 points per game.

The Hawks defeated the Pacers 102-92 in their home opener behind a 25 point performance from Jeff Teague. Chris Copeland led Indiana with 21 points off the bench. Neither David West, George Hill or C.J. Watson played in the first meeting due to injury. While Hill remains out, West and Watson have returned.

Monday's game will be the fifth in seven days for Atlanta and the second night of a back-to-back. Getting off to a good focused start will again be key as the Hawks will likely be tested on the boards and in the paint.

Game Info

Game Date/Time: Monday, December 8, 7 p.m. ET

Location: Bankers Life Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, Indiana

TV: No Local Broadcast

Radio: V103 Atlanta