The Atlanta Hawks are analyzing their roster tiers for the 2026-27 NBA season as they prepare for training camp, seeking a return to the playoffs after a difficult end to the previous campaign. The team is coming off a 89-140 loss to the New York Knicks on April 30, 2026, and has lost its last five games, a recent form of 0 wins, 0 draws, and 5 losses. This context frames the urgency for the Hawks to evaluate their talent and build on a core that finished strong last season.
Who are the Atlanta Hawks' star players?
Currently, the Hawks roster lacks a player in the true superstar tier. The closest candidate is forward Jalen Johnson, who is coming off his first All-Star appearance and first All-NBA team selection. Johnson has shown steady progression, averaging career highs in points and rebounds last season. The jump from being a very good player to a great one is the hardest in the NBA. If Johnson can make that leap, it would significantly alter the franchise's trajectory and establish them as legitimate contenders.
Jalen Johnson occupies the 'Star' tier by himself. He has clearly emerged as one of the best young players in the league. His development is central to Atlanta's future success. The team's other players are evaluated across different tiers based on their projected impact and role for the upcoming season. You can track Johnson's progress and the full team's performance on our stats page.
How does the rest of the roster stack up?
The Hawks made several changes last year before settling on a lineup that went 20-6 after the All-Star Break. That starting five was considered one of the best in the NBA and returns intact for the new season. Beyond the starters, Atlanta added new depth and some exciting rookies during the offseason. These additions are meant to bolster the bench and provide more flexibility for head coach Quin Snyder.
Evaluating the entire roster in tiers helps compare the Hawks' talent level with other high-end teams in the Eastern Conference. The absence of a Tier 1 superstar means the team's success will likely depend on collective effort and Johnson's continued ascent. The supporting cast must consistently contribute on both ends of the floor. For a complete look at the player roster, visit our roster section.
What is the outlook for the Hawks this season?
Training camp begins in three weeks, giving the coaching staff time to integrate new pieces and refine strategies. The primary goal is figuring out the optimal rotation and finding a way back to the NBA playoffs. The memory of the season-ending loss to the Knicks and the five-game skid provides strong motivation. The team believes the core that finished so strongly last year can recapture that form over a full season.
The Hawks' potential hinges on internal growth. Johnson's ability to raise his game further is the single biggest factor. The development of young players and the integration of rookies will also be important. The Eastern Conference is competitive, so Atlanta needs every advantage. Their upcoming schedule, which you can view on our schedule page, will test them early. The tier analysis shows a team with a clear star in the making but one that needs several players to perform above expectations to compete at the highest level.
