Hawks Still Control Their Own Destiny Versus Magic

ATLANTA – There’s a sign leading into the Atlanta Hawks’ locker room that says: “We Control Our Own Destiny.”

Indeed, even after a humiliating loss in Orlando, the Hawks are still in control of their playoff destiny against the Magic. They’re back home with a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven series and looking to close things out Thursday night.

The Hawks insist they’re still feeling good about their chances, even though another loss would send the series back to Orlando for a deciding game. Atlanta wants no part of that scenario, which is why everyone is stressing the importance of coming out strong in Game 6.

Orlando switched things up Tuesday night, relying less on Dwight Howard and getting big games out of Jason Richardson and J.J. Redick in a 101-76 rout.