Porzingis return could be just what Hawks needed to flip script on the season

The Atlanta Hawks finally ended their losing streak Wednesday afternoon, where they beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 126-102. 

They came into the New Year's Eve matchup desperate for a victory.  Gaining any bit of momentum heading into 2026 would be huge for their season outlook.

Defeating a thriving Western Conference opponent was going to be a near-impossible task. Minnesota is a team that has displayed resilience all season long. They came into the matchup with an impressive 21-12 record. 

Their last matchup saw them dominating the Chicago Bulls, a team that has had Atlanta’s number all year. 

On the flip side, the Hawks’ last on-court action saw them giving up 140 points to the Oklahoma City Thunder, extending their losing streak to seven games.

December was a horrendous month. It was well beyond time for the Hawks to flip the script on the season.

Kristaps Porzingis being back on the court may be the key to success.

Coming into Wednesday afternoon's showdown, Porzingis had missed each of Atlanta's last ten games. The Hawks clearly needed him, as they only won two of those matchups with him sidelined.

Tuesday's injury report brought incredible news to a fanbase desperate for some. Their 7'2" center was set to make his long-awaited return.

With how badly the team was struggling, however, many questioned if Porzingis coming back would be enough to turn this nightmare season around.

It's too early to tell, but if his first game back was any indicator, the Hawks could look like a completely different team to begin 2026.

Off the bench and on a minutes restriction, Porzingis made all the difference for Atlanta against the Timberwolves. He scored 16 points on 50% from the field and was a game-high +22.

His offensive gravity makes it much simpler for Jalen Johnson to operate, as defenders cannot leave Porzingis any space to let it fly.

These two have become such a lethal frontcourt pairing in a very short amount of time. After Wednesday's game, I asked Kristaps Porzingis for his opinion on sharing the floor with him:

"How would you assess the two-man game you've developed with Jalen Johnson, whether that's on the perimeter or in the low post? How have y'all been able to benefit off of each other's offensive games?"

He responded with a confident take on Johnson's versatile abilities:

"Honestly, it's super easy to play with Jalen. He's a super underrated passer and the way he can get out in transition, there's not many players like him."

"Then obviously, just playing off of each other, understanding where he likes to get the ball and how he likes to attack, vice-versa," Porzingis continued, "This guy's really good. He's really really good."

Not only was the offense operating at a much higher level, but everyone's defensive assignment seemed easier with him on the floor. Having a proven rim protector down low forces opponents to drive less.

It can't be denied anymore that this Hawks team takes a significant leap on both ends of the floor with Kristaps Porzingis healthy. Him returning to the court could be just what Atlanta needed to go on a much-needed win streak.