PREVIEW: The Dallas Mavericks (21-43) travel to Atlanta to face the Hawks (33-31) on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. EDT , bringing starkly different momentum into this matchup. Dallas has lost 17 of their last 19 games overall and are currently riding a seven-game losing streak , while Atlanta has reeled off six straight victories and sits atop their division in winning form. The Hawks showcase elite offensive spacing and passing (ranked 1st in both categories), operating with efficient transition play that ranks 2nd in the league , creating a cohesive system that's difficult to defend. In contrast, the Mavericks employ quick tempo offense but struggle with shot selection, ranking 25th in isolation plays and 27th in three-point volume , leaving them predictable and stagnant in critical moments. Jalen Johnson leads the Hawks with 22.9 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 7.9 assists per game , and the All-Star produced 35 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists in their most recent victory over Philadelphia. Cooper Flagg anchors the Mavericks' attack with 20.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game , but individual efforts haven't been enough to stop the bleeding. Dallas enters as heavy underdogs, having gone just 7-24 on the road while allowing 117.7 points per contest. The Hawks' superior ball movement and defensive efficiency represent a significant schematic advantage over a Mavericks team that lacks cohesion in both areas , setting the stage for what could be another lopsided affair in Atlanta's favor.