Atlanta Hawks' Onyeka Okongwu Faces High Expectations in 2027

Atlanta Hawks' Onyeka Okongwu Faces High Expectations in 2027

Atlanta Hawks' Onyeka Okongwu is under pressure to repeat his breakout performance in 2027, with a $16.1 million salary and a crucial role in the team's success. The 24-year-old center had a remarkable season last year, averaging 15.2 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game while shooting 48.0% from the field, 37.6% from beyond the arc, and 75.7% from the free-throw line.

Last result: Atlanta Hawks 89-140 New York Knicks (2026-04-30).

Okongwu's impressive stats earned him a spot in the conversation for a massive extension, as a trade chip, and as a key piece of the Atlanta Hawks' core. However, Hughes believes that Okongwu needs to prove that his new skill is here to stay. If he can back up last year's breakout with another high-efficiency, high-volume season from deep, he'll elevate his profile in every possible way.

What happened?

Okongwu played in 74 games for the Hawks last season, recording 16 double-doubles. He averaged 12.5 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 0.8 blocks per game in the six-game series against the New York Knicks in the first round of the 2026 playoffs. The Hawks were the only team in the 2026 playoffs to beat the Knicks twice.

Why it matters for Atlanta Hawks

Okongwu's performance is crucial for the Hawks' success, as they aim to take the next step as an organization. The team is expected to start CJ McCollum, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Dyson Daniels, Jalen Johnson, and Okongwu next season. The Hawks haven't won a playoff series since 2021, and Okongwu's ability to space to 25 feet will be a key factor in their success.

What comes next?

Okongwu needs to prove that his breakout performance was not a one-season blip. He needs to average a double-double next season for the Hawks to take the next step as an organization. The team had a busy offseason, signing McCollum to an extension, re-signing Jock Landale, acquiring Devin Carter, Aaron Wiggins, and Lu Dort, and declining Jonathan Kuminga's team option. The Hawks also drafted Kingston Flemings, Zuby Ejiofor, and Henri Veesaar in the 2026 draft.

Okongwu's future with the Hawks will be closely watched, and his performance will be a key factor in determining the team's success in 2027.