The Atlanta Hawks have opened the 2026-27 season with a 2-1 record, and one of the most encouraging developments has been the production of Aaron Wiggins. His early performances are providing a glimpse of why Atlanta felt comfortable moving forward without Jonathan Kuminga.
Some questioned whether Wiggins could adequately fill the role Kuminga was expected to occupy. However, his early contributions suggest the Hawks may have found a player whose strengths align more naturally with what Quin Snyder needs from his supporting cast.
Wiggins is giving Hawks exactly what they envisioned
Wiggins wasted little time establishing himself as a dependable offensive contributor. He scored 16 points against the Orlando Magic before following that performance with 19 points in Atlanta's historic 47-point victory over the Charlotte Hornets.
Even more impressive was his efficiency from beyond the arc, connecting on three of five attempts in both victories. That consistency gives Atlanta another perimeter threat capable of creating additional space for its primary offensive weapons.
But what makes Wiggins particularly valuable isn't necessarily his scoring ability. It's how comfortably he operates without needing the offense to revolve around him.
Unlike players who thrive with the ball consistently in their hands, Wiggins understands how to generate opportunities through movement, positioning and timely decisions. That approach makes him an excellent complement to Jalen Johnson, who carries significant responsibilities as Atlanta's primary offensive creator.
Wiggins also contributes defensively, using his size and length to challenge opponents and provide Snyder with another versatile option. Those contributions strengthen the identity Atlanta has worked to establish throughout its offseason overhaul.
Wiggins' championship experience could make Kuminga's departure easier
There was never much doubt about Kuminga's talent or athletic potential. However, the question Atlanta faced was whether his development and playing style aligned with the direction the organization wanted to pursue.
Wiggins offers a different type of value, particularly because he's already experienced what it takes to contribute to a championship team. His time with the Oklahoma City Thunder demonstrated that he can embrace a complementary role while remaining productive within a competitive environment.
That experience could become increasingly important as the Hawks attempt to establish themselves among the Eastern Conference's top teams. Atlanta needs players who understand their responsibilities and consistently execute without requiring significant offensive attention.
Of course, three games represent a small sample size, and Wiggins will need to maintain his production before any definitive conclusions can be reached. Still, his early impact suggests Atlanta won't necessarily struggle to replace what Kuminga could have provided.
The Hawks didn't need Wiggins to become another version of Kuminga. They needed someone capable of making their existing roster better.
So far, Wiggins is doing exactly that.
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