If the Atlanta Hawks are going to compete for a playoff spot in 2024-25, a lot has to go right for them.
The Hawks aren’t loaded with established stars, unlike the Boston Celtics or Philadelphia 76ers. They don’t have multiple players who averaged at least 20 points per game last season, unlike the Milwaukee Bucks or Indiana Pacers. They don’t have a firm defensive base to rely upon, unlike the Miami Heat or New York Knicks. Entering next season, their offensive ceiling, perimeter defense, and durability are legitimate concerns.
Despite the challenges, the Hawks have a shot at postseason contention. They possess a versatile frontcourt with defensive potential and enough three-point shooting to be competitive. More importantly, they have four key players—Trae Young, Jalen Johnson, Bogdan Bogdanovic, and De’Andre Hunter—who each have the potential to deliver big performances. For Atlanta to make it to the playoffs, these players will need to step up.
Young: The Team’s Engine
Star point guard Trae Young is expected to play a pivotal role in the Hawks’ success. Despite being sidelined for part of last season with a thumb injury, Young still managed to average 25.7 points, 10.8 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. His 37.3% shooting from three-point range was a career second-best. Young has also shown improvement on defense, which could help the Hawks address one of their biggest weaknesses.
If Young can maintain his offensive firepower while distributing the ball more effectively, especially with Dejounte Murray no longer in the lineup, the Hawks will be a much more dangerous team.
Jalen Johnson: The Rising Star
Jalen Johnson, the team’s most promising young player, could be the Hawks’ X-factor. Standing at 6-foot-9, Johnson had a breakout season last year, averaging 16.0 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game. His athleticism, versatility, and defensive potential have drawn comparisons to LeBron James.
With Murray gone, Johnson has a chance to take on a bigger role. His partnership with Trae Young could elevate his game to the next level, but he’ll need to improve his three-point shooting and finishing to maximize his impact.
Bogdan Bogdanovic: The Veteran Shooter
Bogdan Bogdanovic will be another key player for the Hawks. Though not a household name, the Serbian sharpshooter averaged a career-high 16.9 points last season while hitting 37.4% of his three-point attempts. With the Hawks’ backcourt in flux, Bogdanovic could find himself in a starting role alongside Young.
Known for his reliable shooting, Bogdanovic will be crucial to spreading the floor and providing offensive support. If he can bring more defensive intensity, as seen during his international play, he could be a difference-maker this season.
De’Andre Hunter: The Defensive Anchor
De’Andre Hunter may not have lived up to expectations as a former fourth overall pick, but his contributions on both ends of the floor remain vital. Averaging at least 15 points per game in three of the last four seasons and shooting over 37% from three, Hunter has been the Hawks’ most consistent perimeter defender.
Hunter will need to elevate his rebounding and bring more offensive consistency, especially after his standout performances in the 2022 playoffs. The Hawks will rely on him to be a force on both sides of the ball if they hope to stay competitive.
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