Atlanta Hawks: Bench Is Key To Success

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Apr 28, 2014; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Shelvin Mack (8) dribbles the ball with Indiana Pacers guard George Hill (3) defending during the second quarter in game five of the first round of the 2014 NBA Playoffs at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Pat Lovell-USA TODAY Sports /

Having been bounced between Washington and Philadelphia for his first two seasons in the league, Shelvin Mack seems to have found a home in Atlanta. Little was expected of the former Butler Bulldog when he signed to a 10-day contract at the tail end of last season, but his hard work and impressive play has seen him become a key role player in the 14 months since.

Mack’s ability to shoot the 3, as well as his efficient assist to turnover ratio, allow him to fit perfectly into either of the guard spots in Atlanta’s rotation. Mack is averaging 17 minutes per game in this series so far, providing Atlanta with 8.4 points, 3.7 assists and 2.2 rebounds.

Mack was particularly outstanding in Game 5, as he had 20 points, five assists, three rebounds and two steals in 25 minutes of play. If he can play like that again tonight, the Pacers may have no answer for the Hawks.

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