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Smith shines as Hawks roll to win
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By CHARLES ODUM

AP Sports Writer

 

ATLANTA — Josh Smith had 23 points and 15 rebounds, Al Horford also posted a double-double and the Atlanta Hawks beat Washington 104-95 on Friday night to keep the Wizards winless on the road.

Horford had 14 points and 14 rebounds for the Hawks, who have won eight of nine. The Wizards, who had won two of three following their 0-12 start, fell to 0-8 in road games.

Kevin Seraphin had 19 points and Bradley Beal had 18 for Washington, which could not build on its win over defending champion Miami on Tuesday night.

Jeff Teague had 19 points and DeShawn Stevenson made five 3-pointers for 15 points for Atlanta.

Atlanta's last big lead of 18 points came at 70-52. Washington closed the third period with a hook shot by Seraphin and a 3-pointer from Beal to pull to 80-71. The Wizards kept the momentum in the opening minutes and got within two at 84-82 on Seraphin's 15-foot jumper.

Horford answered with back-to-back baskets. Washington again cut the lead to two points at 91-89 but couldn't complete the comeback.

The Hawks, who rank sixth in fewest points allowed, have been winning with defense. They are the league's only team to not allow an opponent to shoot 50 percent in a game this season.

Atlanta continued the streak of strong defense, holding the Wizards to 45.6-percent shooting.

Stevenson and Devin Harris, who had 15 points, set season scoring highs. Teague and Harris each had six assists.

Jordan Crawford had 14 points but made only 5 of 13 shots.

Washington's last lead was 10-9.