Hawks Surprise Division-Leading Wizards

ATLANTA - It was an unlikely combination that propelled the Atlanta Hawks to a surprise win Wednesday night over the Washington Wizards.

A newly acquired veteran guard assumed a lead role, while a rookie forward made his first start and a still-young center had the best game of his career.

Zaza Pachulia, the 23-year-old center, scored a career-high 27 points and grabbed 12 rebounds, and the Hawks overcame the absence of top scorer Joe Johnson for a 100-97 win over the Southeast Division leaders.

"When key guys are out, you have to share the ball," Pachulia said. "With Joe out, I got a lot more touches."

The Hawks, missing three starters, snapped a …