The Atlanta Hawks play host to the Portland Trail Blazers, at State Farm Arena on Friday evening.

The Hawks (27-48) are 5-5 in their last 10 games, including winning their last three in a row. Despite their record, which is third worst in the East, the Hawks have put together some impressive performances throughout the season, showing that they could be a problem in the near future. For example they are already beating good teams, as they have topped the Sixers and Jazz as part of their current winning streak. Trae Young has led the way for the Hawks for most of the season, and continues to make a final push for the Rookie of the Year award. Young is averaging 23.2 points, 8.8 assists and 4.7 rebounds over his last 10 games. John Collins has also been huge for the Hawks this season, averaging 19.3 points, 9.7 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game. Taurean Prince (foot) is doubtful for action on Friday. The Hawks give up an average of 118.6 points against, which is the worst in the NBA.

Meanwhile, the Trail Blazers (47-27) were dealt a devastating blow earlier in the week, as Jusuf Nurkic went down with a season-ending leg injury. Nurkic had to be stretchered off the floor during the second overtime period, after a huge 32-point, 16-rebound performance. The Blazers managed to hold on for the win, and also came up with a win in their most recent contest to earn their fifth straight win and move to 8-2 in their last 10 games. The Trail Blazers have moved up to third place in the East, and sit only 3.5 games out of second. This marks the second game of a four-game road trip for the Trail Blazers, who are 18-18 on the road this season. Damian Lillard leads the team, averaging 26.2 points, 6.8 assists, 4.6 rebounds and 1.1 steals per game. New addition Enes Kanter finished with 13 points and six rebounds, in 22 minutes, in the Blazers' last outing, where he got the start at center. Kanter has been solid, averaging 10.1 points and 7.2 rebounds, in 18.5 minutes over his last 10 games.