Can Joe Johnson Lead the Atlanta Hawks to Another Playoff Birth?

The Atlanta Hawks were one of the more efficient teams in the NBA Eastern Conference during the 08-09 basketball season. Having built upon the modest success of the season before, the Hawks were a solid regular season team that showed potential to break through in the playoffs.

The Hawks finished with a 47-35 record season and defeated the Miami Heat in the first round in 7 games.

The Hawks have a very young team and looking to build even further in the 09'-10' season. The Hawks were lead by Joe Johnson who averaged nearly 22 points per game in 79 games played.

The Hawks also have veteran point guard in Mike Bibby who averaged 15 points per game and 5 assists. Al Horford is one of the best rebounders and shot blockers in the NBA and he will need to have an outstanding season for the Hawks to have more success this year.

It will be very tough to over take the Orlando Magic in the Southeast division this season. While the Magic have some new pieces in place surrounding Dwight Howard - they are still the favorites.

One of the major concerns for the Hawks was the lack of scoring on offense - out of the 30 NBA teams the Hawks were the nineteenth in scoring, which for a playoff team isn't acceptable. If the Hawks ever hope to reach the Eastern Conference Finals their scoring must improve.

The Eastern Conference just became stronger again with the acquisition of Shaquille O'Neal to the Cleveland Cavaliers - how will the Hawks stop Shaq? That remains to be seen.

Look for the Hawks to build on their success from the last two years. This is a talented, young team that can't be slept on looking forward. Hawks fans have many reasons to be excited.

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