Atlanta Hawks Seek Playoff Success with Strong Core
The Atlanta Hawks are looking to build on their Southeast Division title from the 2025-26 season, with a strong core of players returning for the 2026-27 campaign. After winning the division title in 2025-26, the Hawks are looking to bet on their continuity, with a projected starting unit made up entirely of players who finished the 2026 NBA Playoffs donning a Hawks uniform.
What Changed?
The Hawks made their biggest change last season with the trade that sent Trae Young to the Washington Wizards. This move has had a significant impact on the team's dynamics, with Jalen Johnson taking on a more prominent role. Johnson delivered an All-Star-caliber performance and carried Atlanta to the sixth seed in the East, although they lost in the first round to the New York Knicks.
Fantasy Outlook
Johnson remains one of the best point forwards in the NBA ahead of the 2026-27 season and should deliver late first-round or early second-round value if he stays healthy after posting 13 triple-doubles in 2025-26. Okongwu is an athletic center who has starter-level capacity thanks to his ability to contribute in multiple categories, while McCollum, Daniels, and Alexander-Walker are solid, reliable mid-to-late options in most formats, with Daniels earning even more upside due to his defensive contributions.
Recent Form
The Hawks have struggled in recent form, with a 0-5 record in their last five games, including a 89-140 loss to the New York Knicks on April 30, 2026. Despite this, the team remains confident in their ability to turn things around and make a deep playoff run.
Bottom Line
The Hawks might not be able to win the title for a second straight season now that Giannis Antetokounmpo is in Miami, but they should still be a playoff team without needing to go through the Play-In Tournament.
