Preview: The Hawks are back to even at 15-15 after they lost at home to the Timberwolves 92-84 on Wednesday, but won 109-108 at Denver on Friday. And go figure this: They have lost six of their past seven at home, but have won their past four road games, including at Oklahoma City and Toronto. They trailed the Nuggets by eight with 1:38 remaining, then scored the game's final nine points, all on free throws. Atlanta did so without Dwight Howard, Kyle Korver, Tim Hardaway Jr. and Tiago Splitter, who all were out injured or ill. … The Wolves have won the last three games between the teams.
Players to watch: With Howard out, the versatile Hawks have been starting forward Paul Millsap at center, where he is averaging 20.8 points on 51.5 shooting from the field in his last nine games; he has scored 30 points once and 20 points six times in that stretch. … Hawks reserve big man Mike Muscala (Roseville) is shooting 54.3 percent from the field and averaging 8.5 points, 3.8 rebounds and 1.6 assists off the bench. He and teammate Kris Humphries (Hopkins) were back home in Minnesota for the holidays.
Injuries: Atlanta's Howard (back tightness) and Hardaway (groin) both missed Friday's game and will be evaluated again at Monday's morning shootaround. Korver was ill but is expected to be available. Splitter (calf strain) remains out.
