Before the season began, the Atlanta Hawks were seen as potential contenders for the Eastern Conference title. Since the All-Star break, they have finally started to perform as expected.
The Hawks began the season slowly, facing injuries and concerns regarding star player Trae Young. However, after making changes in January and February, the team has excelled, boasting an impressive 18-3 record since the break, along with the NBA’s second-best defense, highlighted by a decisive 130-101 victory over the Orlando Magic on Wednesday.
CJ McCollum has made a significant impact for the Hawks
When the Hawks traded Young to the Washington Wizards, it seemed like they were merely looking to offload his costly contract. However, 34-year-old guard CJ McCollum has filled the gap left by Young effectively, averaging 18.7 points and 3.8 assists per game while supporting Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Jalen Johnson in the offense. Although McCollum is not known for his defensive skills, he has improved the team overall.
Since McCollum became a regular starter on February 22, the Hawks have posted a remarkable 17-2 record, featuring the NBA’s second-best defense and third-best offense. Dyson Daniels has maintained an impressive assist-to-turnover ratio of 4.1 since the break, while new acquisitions Jock Landale, Jonathan Kuminga (who scored 12 points on Wednesday), and Gabe Vincent have all strengthened the Hawks’ increasingly robust bench.