The media are expecting a big season from the Atlanta Hawks, and different opinions about their biggest weakness have been circulating. According to Bleacher Report, the Hawks' biggest weakness is their ‘Non-Trae Passing’. Staff writer Zach Buckley expressed thoughts similar to those other journalists have echoed about the Hawks.
“While the return of Jalen Johnson and additions of Kristaps Porziņģis and Nickeil Alexander-Walker provide more scoring options, there still isn't a great passing option beyond Young,” Buckley said. “There will probably be some by-committee approach to getting the ball moving, but it would feel more comfortable if head coach Quin Snyder knew exactly who could take over the offense's keys.”
Contrary to belief, the Hawks have numerous playmakers who will see an increase in their roles this season, most notably Jalen Johnson and Dyson Daniels. Johnson is a proven point forward, averaging 5.0 assists per game and recording multiple triple-doubles.
Daniels also averaged 4.4 assists per game in his first season with Atlanta, and the 22-year-old averaged 6.3 assists in four games without Trae Young this year. Before joining the Hawks, he served as a Point Guard in New Orleans and in his native Australia.
Both players have caught the attention of some of the top NBA scouts, and their leaps this season are inevitable.
Will the Hawks' lack of a clear second point guard matter?
ESPN released their predictions for the 2025-26 season, and they’ve given the Hawks respect, finishing with a 47-35 record next Spring.
It would be a remarkable improvement from their 40-42 record last season, and multiple pundits, including Sam Vecenie of The Athletic, have the Hawks winning 50+ games. The third-youngest team in the NBA will secure much-needed home-court advantage in the playoffs.
This roster is designed for 82-game stability on both sides of the ball, and their new additions will avoid any playmaking issues when Young is resting on the bench. Luke Kennard is known for his shooting, but he is an above-average ball handler.
Guard-Forward Nickeil Alexander-Walker will also serve as a playmaker in the second unit. He has a background as a point guard, most notably at Virginia Tech, when he led the Hokies to the NCAA tournament after point guard Justin Robinson suffered an injury.
His increased usage was essential in elevating his draft stock to a first-round pick and, eventually, a successful NBA career.
If the Hawks' biggest weakness is their “Non-Trae Young Passing” with only two weeks until opening night, they’re in good shape. The front office certainly tried their best to address their playmaking problems, but only time will tell if they made the right choices.