Atlanta Hawks 2026-2027 guide
The Atlanta Hawks are shifting gears: more pace, versatility and options as they open a new chapter and look to return to prominence in the Eastern Conference
We’re getting closer to the start of the NBA preseason and, as every year, we’ll analyze each team in detail to understand what to expect from the 2026-2027 season.
The Atlanta Hawks head quietly into their first season without Trae Young, with a balanced and versatile roster that will rely on high pace and defensive solidity to surprise a crowded Eastern Conference.
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Key players
The designated leader for this fresh start will be Jalen Johnson (F, 19.0 cr.): averages of 22.5 points, 10.3 rebounds and 7.9 assists provide more than a solid foundation to keep betting on the continued growth of Atlanta’s No. 1.
Alongside him, Onyeka Okongwu (C, 12.0 cr.) has surprisingly managed to reinvent himself, drifting out to the perimeter more and more often to open up driving lanes for his teammate; if he continues rounding out his offensive game, the Nigerian big man could finally establish himself among the top players at his position.
Player to avoid
Nickeil Alexander-Walker (G, 11.0 cr.) averaged more than 20 points per game before collapsing against the extreme physicality imposed by the Raptors in the Playoffs and falling back toward his previous level, raising several questions about his true value.
The expanded rotation and the increasingly central role of CJ McCollum (G, 10.0 cr.) suggest not investing too heavily in the former Timberwolves guard, especially given the abundance of strong alternatives in that price range.
Potential surprises
The arrival of two NBA champions from OKC in Lu Dort (G, 6.0 cr.) and Aaron Wiggins (G, 6.5 cr.) suggests that the front office wants to add experienced veterans to guide this new era: it is reasonable to expect significant minutes for both in a system that favors their versatility.
Projected Starting Five
PG: Nickeil Alexander-Walker (Guard, 11.0 cr)
SG: Dyson Daniels (Guard, 12.0 cr)
SF: Luguentz Dort (Guard, 6.0 cr)
PF: Jalen Johnson (Forward, 19.0 cr)
C: Onyeka Okongwu (Center, 12.0 cr)
Power Ranking
The strengthened field in the East leaves little room for mid-tier teams still searching for their identity like Atlanta, but the established presence of coach Quin Snyder and the decision to follow a clearer direction offer reasons for optimism about the future; if one of the top teams underperforms, we are confident Atlanta can replicate last season’s strong Regular Season and compete for a spot in the postseason.
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