The Atlanta Hawks got off to a slow start this season, but they have been fairly consistent over the past month or so.
They’re a pesky team that’s never going to give up without a fight.
That was on full display again in their recent road loss to the New York Knicks.
That’s why Charles Barkley believes they’re a legitimate dark horse in the Eastern Conference.
“I will tell you the team that’s dangerous, believe it or not, the Atlanta Hawks. They’re a sleeper in the Eastern Conference,” Barkley said, via NBA on TNT.
“The Atlanta Hawks.. They’re a sleeper in the Eastern Conference” 👀
The guys debate on who the actual contenders are in the East 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/FSsjI3uYag
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) January 21, 2025
Barkley tipped his hat to the hard-working and hard-fighting Hawks.
Head coach Quin Snyder has done a solid job of keeping his team afloat since he took the reins.
Dyson Daniels has emerged as a much better complement for Trae Young than Dejounte Murray was, and all the rumors about Young being on the move have been put to bed.
Zaccharie Risacher hasn’t played up to the standards of a No. 1 overall pick, but he’s been a steady contributor.
Jalen Johnson is surging as a legitimate two-way star.
While De’Andre Hunter has struggled to stay healthy, he’s also a very good player on both ends of the floor when he’s available.
The Hawks’ length and athleticism make them tough to get past on defense.
They might look to trade Clint Capela before the deadline to add another shooter to their roster, especially because Onyeka Okongwu looks ready to take over as the starting center.
Currently sixth in the East, they could make some noise in the postseason.
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