A look at 10 of the top regular-season games for the Hawks this season:
Oct. 30 vs. Hornets
The Hawks will get an early test on where they stand in the Southeast Division against the Hornets, who have added several pieces to a healthy Al Jefferson. It’s the first of a home-away back-to-back as they teams play again Nov. 1 in Charlotte.
Nov. 21 at Cavaliers
The Hawks only play the Cavaliers three times this season. This is the first (non-exhibition) match up with the team that swept them in the Eastern Conference finals. It will be a test 15 games into the regular season.
Nov. 30 vs. Thunder
The Thunder will make their only regular-season visit to Philips Arena. They could have a healthy Kevin Durant, who missed last season’s game in Atlanta. It’s always must-see when Durant and Russell Westbrook are in town.
Dec. 2 vs. Raptors
Here he comes. DeMarre Carroll will make his return to Atlanta – wearing a Raptors uniform after signing as a free agent this summer. The Hawks ultimately decided to keep Paul Millsap over Carroll. The Junkyard Dog, a fan favorite, may have something to prove.
Dec. 12 vs. Spurs
Mike Budenholzer has yet to beat his mentor in Spurs coach Gregg Popovich during in his two years in Atlanta (0-4 regular season). The teams meet in San Antonio Nov. 28 but this will be on the Hawks’ court. Tiago Splitter will also go against his former teammates.
Dec. 4 vs. Lakers
This could be it for Kobe Bryant. The Lakers star may be playing his final season – for the Lakers and maybe for his career. Bryant usually has a significant share of fans in Philips Arena. This could be over the top.
Dec. 14 vs. Heat
The Heat and Dwyane Wade make their first appearance of the regular season in Atlanta. Wade still gets plenty of cheers here. The aging Heat will try to return to the postseason after missing the playoffs last year.
Feb. 22 vs. Warriors
The Hawks will get their one chance at the defending NBA champions on their home court. The teams split their regular-season meetings last season. This will surely be an indication of where the Hawks stand headed into the final two months.
April 1 vs. Cavaliers
LeBron James and company will make their only regular-season trip to Philips Arena. The Hawks finished seven games better than the Cavaliers last season before being eliminated a series short of the NBA Finals. The meeting comes in the Hawks’ 77th game of the season.
April 13 at Wizards
The regular-season finale pits the Hawks against the team the division foe they eliminated in the second-round of the playoffs last season. Many say if the Wizards had a healthy John Wall the series may have turned out differently. Perhaps it will be another playoff preview.
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