The Atlanta Hawks are currently the hottest team in the NBA, and they look to keep the momentum rolling on Friday, March 13, when they host the Milwaukee Bucks at State Farm Arena. Riding an impressive eight-game winning streak, the Hawks have transformed their season and are now making a serious push for a guaranteed playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
The Atlanta Hawks' Historic Surge
Atlanta’s recent form has been nothing short of dominant. The Atlanta Hawks extended their winning streak to eight games on Thursday night with a 108-97 victory over the Brooklyn Nets. This run represents the team's longest winning streak since the 2021-22 season and stands as the best active streak in the NBA. The win on Thursday tied the franchise's best mark since their 19-game winning streak during the 2014-15 campaign, matching an eight-game run previously achieved in March 2021.
This surge has been vital for a team that struggled with inconsistency early in the year. After falling well below .500 in December, the Hawks (35-31) have found their rhythm at the perfect time. Six of the eight victories during this streak have come at State Farm Arena, helping the team reach a .500 home record (16-16) for the first time since late November.
All-Star Leadership: Jalen Johnson and the Supporting Cast
At the center of this resurgence is first-time All-Star Jalen Johnson, who has evolved into one of the most versatile threats in the league. Johnson is currently averaging 23.0 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 7.9 assists per game. His statistical output puts him in elite company; he is on pace to become only the fifth player in NBA history to average at least 22 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists in a single season, joining legends like Nikola Jokic, Oscar Robertson, Russell Westbrook, and Wilt Chamberlain.
While Johnson provides the star power, the Hawks are getting significant contributions across the roster:
- Nickeil Alexander-Walker: A consistent scoring threat who recently dropped 29 points in a win against the Mavericks.
- Dyson Daniels: The defensive anchor who has taken on increased playmaking duties. Over the last seven games, Daniels has recorded 50 assists with only four turnovers.
- Clint Capela: Continuing to provide a veteran presence in the paint and rebounding stability.
Defensive Identity and Elite Playmaking
The Hawks' success isn't just about scoring; it’s about ball security and defensive intensity. Dyson Daniels has been the primary catalyst on the defensive end, often tasked with guarding the opponent's best player. Over the last seven games, he has tallied 18 steals, disruptive play that has fueled Atlanta’s transition offense. Since the trade of Trae Young, the ball has been in Daniels' hands more frequently, and his decision-making has been impeccable.
This defensive identity will be tested against a Milwaukee Bucks team that, despite their struggles, still possesses dangerous individual talent. The Bucks (27-38) currently sit 11th in the Eastern Conference and are fighting to keep their slim postseason hopes alive. Milwaukee took the previous meeting this season on January 19, a narrow 112-110 victory, despite a game-high 32 points from Alexander-Walker.
Playoff Implications and the Road Ahead
Every game now carries immense weight for the Atlanta Hawks as they look to avoid the Play-In Tournament. Atlanta currently holds the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference. They are chasing the Orlando Magic for the sixth spot—the final guaranteed playoff seed—to avoid a fifth consecutive trip to the play-in rounds.
A victory on Friday against Milwaukee would not only extend the streak to nine games but would also provide further cushion over the teams trailing them. The Hawks have shown they can win in various ways, whether through high-scoring outbursts or gritty defensive stands. As they prepare to face the Bucks, the focus remains on maintaining the chemistry that has defined the last three weeks of play. If Johnson and Daniels continue their high-level playmaking, Atlanta is well-positioned to secure their ninth straight win and move closer to a top-six finish.
Sources & Original Reporting
