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Josh Smith Returns; Hawks Defeat Suns
ATLANTA -- Josh Smith said he wanted the win even more than a triple-double.
Smith made a strong return to Atlanta's lineup with 17 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists, and the Hawks led by double figures throughout the final period of their 107-94 victory over the Phoenix Suns on Friday night.
Entering the fourth quarter, Smith was three assists shy of the triple-double. Hawks coach Larry Drew said he was hoping Smith could reach the milestone, but even Smith had to smile when teammates missed shots after catching his passes.
The Hawks had 27 assists.
Goran Dragic had 21 points and eight assists for the Suns, who have lost three straight and five of six.
Dragic said Phoenix couldn't keep up with the Hawks' combination of the strong inside play of Smith and Horford and the 3-point shooting of Korver.
"They have great players in the low post, Smith and Horford," Dragic said. "A lot of times when Josh Smith had the ball, we tried to bring the guy from the other side. He's a great passer, he found open guys and we were too late. Especially when the weak side is Korver. He's a great shooter. And they were making shots."
The Hawks made 12 of 23 3-pointers. Korver made four of five attempts.
The Suns fell to 7-27 on the road.
