:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46057814/usa-today-8444274.0.jpg)
The Atlanta Hawks put together arguably their best offensive performance of the season over the weekend in annihilating the Brooklyn Nets. On Tuesday night, the team will look to build on that showing when the Hawks host the Phoenix Suns at Philips Arena.
Unfortunately for the home team, there will be a gap in the roster, as Paul Millsap is set to miss at least the next two games with a shoulder injury. Indications are that the prognosis for Millsap is positive, and in his absence, Mike Budenholzer and company can take an extended look at Mike Scott as he recovers from a toe injury. In addition, Mike Muscala should continue to see real playing time, and he is attempting to break in to the playoff rotation (though unlikely) with strong play off the bench. On the positive side from an availability standpoint, point guard Dennis Schröder is listed as "probable", meaning that we are likely to see his return from the toe ailment.
As for the visiting Suns, this is their lone trip to Atlanta this season. Phoenix snapped a five-game losing streak with a win over the Utah Jazz on Saturday, but in that vein, the Suns have been struggling mightily in the recent past. Still, Phoenix has faint hopes at reaching the playoffs as the eighth seed in the West, and the Hawks should see their top effort (though Brandon Knight is set to miss the game) on Tuesday evening.
Perhaps the biggest story from Tuesday's matchup will be the rotation that Mike Budenholzer elects to deploy. With a game against the Brooklyn Nets on Wednesday, the coaching staff could reasonably decide that Tuesday's game is expendable in an effort to decrease Brooklyn's chances to reach the playoffs. However, it must be noted that Atlanta hasn't elected to rest players in extended fashion at home this season, and any guess as to the rotation would be educated but inexact.
Game Info
Game Date/Time: Tuesday, April 7, 7:30 pm ET
Location: Philips Arena, Atlanta, Georgia
TV: SportSouth
Radio: 92.9 "The Game" FM