Can the Atlanta Hawks keep their momentum going against a struggling Lakers team? The Hawks are on a roll, riding a three-game winning streak and showcasing a fresh lineup that’s turning heads. But here’s where it gets interesting: their latest victory wasn’t just another win—it marked the debut of CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert, who were acquired in a blockbuster trade for Trae Young. Together, they chipped in 14 points and seven assists off the bench, helping Atlanta secure a 124-111 win over the Golden State Warriors. And this is the part most people miss: McCollum’s leadership is already making waves, with Hawks coach Quin Snyder praising his ability to lead by example and elevate the team’s performance.
The Hawks’ depth was on full display as six players scored in double digits, led by Nickeil Alexander-Walker’s 24 points and Jalen Johnson’s 23-point, 11-rebound double-double. Luke Kennard also stole the show with a season-high 22 points, knocking down 6 of 9 three-pointers—a level of aggression Snyder believes is key to his success. Meanwhile, Onyeka Okongwu, a Los Angeles native, dropped 18 points and grabbed 12 rebounds ahead of his homecoming game. However, Atlanta isn’t without its challenges: Kristaps Porzingis (Achilles) and Zaccharie Risacher (knee) have missed the last two games, leaving their availability in question.
But here’s where it gets controversial: The Lakers are reeling from a three-game losing streak, including a 124-112 loss to the Sacramento Kings. Despite Luka Doncic’s 42-point outburst and LeBron James’ 22 points, the team’s starters Jake LaRavia and Marcus Smart combined for just three points on abysmal shooting. The Lakers’ three-point struggles are glaring—they shot 22.2% from deep compared to the Kings’ 65.4%. Coach JJ Redick didn’t hold back, calling out their defensive lapses and poor assist-to-conversion ratio. Yet, turnovers, a recent concern, were kept to a season-low 10 on Monday. Rui Hachimura (calf) and Austin Reaves (calf) remain sidelined, though Hachimura is expected to see limited minutes against the Hawks. Redick’s decision to bench Hachimura on Monday, citing severe minute restrictions, has sparked debate among fans.
When these teams last met on November 8, the Hawks dominated with a 122-102 victory, kicking off a five-game winning streak. Mouhamed Gueye scored a career-high 21 points, while Risacher added 19. Doncic, who had 22 points for the Lakers, had one of his lowest-scoring games of the season. Here’s the burning question: Can the Lakers turn things around at home, or will the Hawks’ new-look roster prove too much to handle? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—is this the start of a Hawks resurgence, or can the Lakers find their footing just in time?
