> ASSISTANCE: The Hawks usually rely on their veteran backcourt for points. Joe Johnson and Mike Bibby delivered, combining for 41 points in the Hawks' 114-109 win over New York on Sunday at Philips Arena.

They did so much more than that, though, sparking a ball-sharing party that resulted in the Hawks piling up 32 assists.

Johnson (13) and Bibby (nine) led the way as the Hawks won their third straight game by recording those 32 assists on their 44 made field goals.

"I thought we shared the ball early and that really set the tone for the way we played," Johnson said. "It wasn't our prettiest game by any stretch. But we had to grind our way through it. And sharing the ball is usually the best way to get through these tough games like this."

Johnson and Bibby's decision-making early always sets the tone, Hawks sixth man Josh Childress said.

"When they're a threat, be it passing or scoring, it determines the way the other teams plays us," Childress said. "They got the ball moving early and that was how we played the whole night."

> REUNION WEEK: Hawks rookie center Al Horford faced a former Florida teammate for the second straight game in Knicks center David Lee. He faced Chicago's Joakim Noah in Friday's win over the Bulls.

Lee played well, finishing with 17 points and 10 rebounds. Horford topped him, though, with 18 points and 13 rebounds. And he got the win. Guess who'll have bragging rights this summer in Gainesville?

"We were battling out there," Lee said. "He's a very good rebounder and he gets his points when teams are rotating on defense."