Jalen Johnson started his first game of the season to face two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. Antetokounmpo and Lillard were enough to trouble Atlanta tonight without Khris Middleton.
The Hawks started 12-4 with strong defense and good ball movement. Newsflash: Trae Young still distributes the ball well.
The Hawks' offensive stalled in the second quarter's early minutes. Atlanta had a 48-33 lead at 6:00 after swapping deep bombs with Milwaukee.
Atlanta led 68-47 at halftime. Jalen Johnson led the night with 14 points, five rebounds, and good defense in the toughest matchup.
Dejounte Murray had 14 points, three assists, and two steals due to perimeter defense. Murray's on-ball defense kept Lillard scoreless in the first half.
In the second half, the Hawks continued their strong passing and shooting. Murray somehow sets up Clint Capela with a layup around a double team.
Hawks led 101-80 after 36 minutes. Atlanta's assault was balanced, with eight players scoring 10–15 points.
The Hawks coasted to their first season win after pushing hard in the fourth quarter. Both sides pulled most rotation players by halfway through the quarter, creating an exhibition-like atmosphere for the final six minutes.