The New Jersey Nets will attempt to stop a four-game losing streak that ended their slim playoff hopes when they travel to take on the Atlanta Hawks on Friday night at Philips Arena.
Things hit a tipping point for Avery Johnson and Deron Williams Wednesday against the Washington Wizards. Both were ejected in the 108-89 loss after Williams was once again abused going to the rim without getting a call. The point guard scored a team-high 17 points before his early exit while Gerald Wallace, Kris Humphries and Anthony Morrow each added 13.
While the playoffs are out of the picture for the Nets, things are very different for the Hawks, currently holding down the No. 6 spot in the Eastern Conference. Atlanta has won three of four, including a 103-102 overtime victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers Wednesday. Josh Smith powered the Hawks in the win, scoring 32 points and pulling down 17 rebounds while logging 51 minutes.
New Jersey could be without Jordan Farmar as he nurses a groin injury and Shelden Williams has a sore shoulder but has yet to miss a game (the only Net able to make that claim this season).
You can watch the game on YES or listen on Bloomberg 1130 with tip scheduled for 7:30 p.m.