12/10/2008 Preview: HAWKS vs. San Antonio Spurs

Coming off a tough loss in Houston last night, the Hawks flew 197 miles to San Antonio for this season's last game in Texas. The Spurs, fresh off a double-overtime thriller at Dallas, return home to the AT&T Center, where they have won their past 10 against the Hawks. Furthermore, the Spurs have won 4 games in a row and are now 12-8 on the season. Al Horford should be able to defend Tim Duncan, who isn't as big as last night's bohemith, Yao Ming. The backcourt, however, is a different story. Not only do the Hawks have a difficult time containing speedy point guards (like Tony Parker), but they have never been able to figure out how to stop Manu Ginobili.

The Hawks have one thing going for them tonight - the Spurs played an incredibly long game just last night. Tim Duncan played over 50 minutes, Parker had over 47, and Ginobili had nearly 42. Hopefully the Spurs come out a little bit tired, and the Hawks can capitalize. Last night, the Hawks were outscored by 11 in the first quarter. If that happens again, this will be a long night. After winning 3 straight, the Hawks have now dropped 2 in a row - look for them to come out firing in an attempt to right the ship.

PLEA
Dear Josh Smoove -
Please stay under control tonight. Thanks!

-Ehlo

PREDICTIONS
Top Scorers:
Joe Johnson - 25
Tony Parker - 30

Rebounds:
Al Horford - 9
Tim Duncan - 10

Assists:
Mike Bibby - 6
Tony Parker - 7

Ehlo's Game Prediction:
Even after the Spurs' double-overtime victory, they still have enough in the tank to outlast a Hawks team that is frustrated and tired from their game last night. Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker carry the Spurs to victory, 96-89. (And, in what has now become a bittersweet tradition, you get another hot picture afterwards)

Ehlo's Excellence:

3-1

Smildress' Just For Fun Spread Prediction:
(3-1 SU, 3-1 ATS)
Unfortunately, I have to agree with Ehlo (again) - Spurs win and cover the 6 points.

Solomon Jones Minutes:

3 - Solo pulled a Mario last night, so look for him to get a few minutes tonight against Duncan.

Famous San Antonians:

Dr. Robert Cade (Inventor of Gatorade):

Stone Cold Steve Austin:

The Alamo:

Shaquille O'Neal:

The Heartbreak Kid:

Brickowski: