Hawks Could Have a Massive 2026-27, NBA Analysts Say
This is certainly positive news for the Atlanta Hawks.
The Atlanta Hawks are poised for a significant improvement in the 2026-27 NBA season, according to a panel of NBA analysts. The Hawks secured 14 points in ESPN's ranking of teams most likely to experience a major leap, placing them sixth on the list. Although this ranking falls short of the 46 points earned by the Indiana Pacers and Utah Jazz, it still places Atlanta among the teams analysts foresee making a notable advancement.
This ranking puts the Hawks alongside several other franchises expected to undergo a turnaround. The Washington Wizards earned 20 points, while the Dallas Mavericks and Philadelphia 76ers tied with 15 points each. The Hawks' 14 points indicate a genuine belief that Atlanta could transform into a markedly different team soon. This designation as a possible surprise team sets the Hawks apart from others simply hoping to improve around the edges.
The Hawks' regular season record of 46-36 and playoff appearance as the sixth seed in 2025-26 fall just one point behind the Mavericks and 76ers, positioning them among the teams analysts anticipate shaking up the league. While there is no guarantee that the preseason projection will materialize, ESPN's panel has now identified the Hawks as a team capable of making a dramatic leap.
For Atlanta, this recognition is a promising indicator as they embark on the next phase of their franchise.
Written by urgent.news from Newsweek's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
