As the Atlanta Hawks approach the final stretch of their season, it’s evident that their performance thus far hasn’t positioned them as contenders for the title. With Trae Young sidelined for a month, their prospects for success have dwindled significantly.
The recent three-game trip to New York was anticipated to be a turning point. Facing off against the Brooklyn Nets, the Hawks suffered a humiliating defeat in the first game, rallying briefly before faltering in the third quarter. Despite a promising start in the second game, they couldn’t maintain momentum in the latter half.
This disappointing outcome has allowed the Nets to close in on the Hawks’ position for the final play-in spot. To salvage something from the New York trip, the Hawks must overcome the formidable challenge of defeating the fourth-seeded New York Knicks, a task they’ve struggled with since their playoff victory in 2021.
The significance of the New York trip lies in the Hawks’ remaining schedule. With 22 games left in the season, 15 of them are against playoff or play-in-bound teams, making the climb to contention seem insurmountable, especially without their star player. In contrast, the 11th-place Brooklyn Nets face fewer higher-ranked opponents, with a favorable tiebreak against the Hawks if they finish with the same record. Consequently, the Hawks may adopt a semi-tanking strategy to improve their draft position.
However, this doesn’t mean the Hawks will cease their efforts entirely. They still aim to showcase emerging talents like De’Andre Hunter, Kobe Bufkin, and Bruno Hunter, while building team chemistry for the next season. Coach Quin Snyder must foster a forward-looking mindset among the players, emphasizing the importance of player roles and managing minor injuries to ensure a productive offseason.
As the postseason fades from reach, the focus shifts to preparing for the 2024-25 season. With Trae Young recovering from surgery and Onyeka Okongwu awaiting clearance, the Hawks must seize the opportunity to develop their roster and embrace the future with optimism.
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