Atlanta has not made the playoffs in two seasons. In fact, since they made the Conference Finals in 2021, their success has slowly tailed off. They have lost in the first round twice, had a winning record
once, and have had three head coaches. It has been a whirlwind for the Hawks, and not the reality fans thought they’d be in when Trae Young made the All-Star team in his second season.
Fortunately, the arrow is pointing up in Atlanta. They have last year’s number one pick, Zaccharie Risacher, a great young forward in Jalen Johnson, and traded for former Maverick Kristaps Porzingis this summer. Dyson Daniels made a leap last year into a Swiss Army Knife that helps in every way. Clint Capela was dealt to Houston to clear space for Porzingis and Onyeka Okongwu to control the paint. This is a group that has athleticism, youth, talent, and defensive capability. The Hawks are looking to put the East on notice.
Atlanta Hawks: Over/Under 47.5 Wins (-104/-118)
Last Season: 40-42
Additions: Kristaps Porzingis, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Luke Kennard
Losses: Larry Nance Jr., Terance Mann
I love everything the Hawks did this offseason. The Young-Porzingis relationship is a bit 2020 Mavericks-y, but I think with Porzingis’ maturity and the defenders they have around them, it can probably work. Luke Kennard has sneakily been one of the best shooters in the league since he was drafted, and this is a chance to be a part of a meaningful team, something he hasn’t experienced in a few seasons. Johnson is a guy who can be a difference-maker for a championship team, and if he stays healthy, the All-Star game could be in his cards. This Hawks team is good, hungry, and well-constructed. Don’t be surprised if they have home court advantage in the playoffs.
