Atlanta’s core trio is operating at a high level when playing together

Photo by Jordan Johnson/NBAE via Getty ImagesWith Taurean Prince already on the shelf and Kent Bazemore set to miss extended time with injury, the Atlanta Hawks are operating in a short-handed capacity at the moment. While the team played at an improved level to close 2018, expectations (at least when it comes to wins and losses) should be tempered a bit during the stretch without Atlanta’s two most established wings and the early returns aren’t overly positive on the scoreboard.

Still, there is plenty to be excited about with an organization that is well-positioned for the future and, in the present, that means the performance of Atlanta’s young players. There will be plenty of time to look…