Game Thread: Post defense key against T'Wolves

Atlanta Hawks' Shelvin Mack (8) shoots a 3-point shot against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the second quarter of an NBA basketball game Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/Mark Duncan)

Credit: Chris Vivlamore

Credit: Chris Vivlamore

Atlanta Hawks' Shelvin Mack (8) shoots a 3-point shot against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the second quarter of an NBA basketball game Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/Mark Duncan)

What concerns Hawks coach Mike Budenholzer the most about the 7-35 Timberwolves?

"They are a team in the paint can really hurt you," Budenholzer said. "Having (Nikola) Pekovic back as a post-up guy, he is one of the best in the league. They post up (Andrew) Wiggins. They post up a lot of different guys. Through the post they can get to the free-throw line. I think our post defense and keeping them off the free-throw line is something that is important every game but I think these guys will test us in a big way there."

I asked Budenholzer for an update on Shelvin Mack, who will miss his fourth straight game Sunday with a left calf strain.

"Shelvin, each day is getting a little bit better is what I’ve been told," Budenholzer said.

Mack said he "hopes" to be back for Wednesday's game against the Nets. However, it appears the Hawks are in no rush to get him back until he's 100 percent healthy.