Why The Atlanta Hawks Will Be a Contender in the East

by George Johnston IV

The NBA season is approaching us fast. And with every NBA season, comes rising dark horses and falling giants. One of those dark horses that I am particularly interested in are the Atlanta Hawks. To me, they seem like a rising team that has a legitimate shot of competing for the Eastern Conference. So I want to give you all some reasons why I believe that.

1. They have a Do-it-All Star Point Guard in Trae Young

The point guard is the conductor of a team’s offense. Luckily for Atlanta, they have a star in Trae Young, who can drop 25+ points and 10+ assists a game, making him a lethal offensive threat against any team. If he can start to become the leader this team needs him to be, the Hawks can take some huge steps towards becoming contenders. 

2. They have Great Defensive Players

When you think of defensive players on the Hawks, the first person who probably comes to mind is 2025 Most Improved Player and steals leader Dyson Daniels. But their defensive arsenal is much more than him, even if he leads it. They have a great rebounder in Jalen Johnson, a blocking beast in Kristaps Porzingis, as well as good two-way threats like Asa Newell and Zaccharie Risacher. 

3. The East Is Wide Open for the Taking

The Celtics, Pacers, and Bucks are all missing stars that were crucial to their seasons a year ago. Because they were some of the East’s strongest teams, this means that it could be open to teams like the Knicks, Pistons, Cavs, and other teams that could make deeper runs. The Hawks included. If the Hawks take advantage of the losses other teams have taken by having a strong regular season, they could have a good shot at making a deep playoff run.

Those were just 3 of my reasons why I think the Hawks could be great this year. If you have any others, or have another team you think could do well, share it with me. I’m so excited for this year to kick off, so we’ll just have to see what happens in the 2025 NBA season.