Los Angeles Lakers: 3 keys to beating the Atlanta Hawks in game 27

Los Angeles Lakers: 3 Keys to beating the Atlanta Hawks in Game 27

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 17: Trae Young #11 of the Atlanta Hawks is blocked at the basket by Danny Green #14 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the first half of a game at Staples Center on November 17, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images) /

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LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers is fouled by Trae Young #11 of the Atlanta Hawks (Photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images) /

3.) Attack Trae Young on offense

Trae Young, for all of his offensive talents, is by far the Hawk’s weakest defender, as his on/off numbers show that the team gives up a whopping +11.7 points per 100 possessions when he’s on the floor. LeBron James has a knack for finding the mismatch and exploiting it to it’s fullest, so don’t be surprised if we see him try to get Young switched onto him throughout the game.

Going after Young should also tire him out, and limit what he’s able to do on the offensive end of the floor. To be fair to Young, it’s not for a lack of trying on his part, it’s just that he simply lacks the physical tools to be an even average defender.

It also should be noted that as bad as Young is on defense, he is essential to the Hawk’s offense, as his USG% is 37.5% and the team scores +14.9 points per 100 possessions when he’s out there. So this number right here is a major reason why the team needs to do all they can to limit Young.

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