The Atlanta Hawks have won four consecutive games and are 6-2 since point guard Trae Young sprained his MCL and went out of the lineup in late October, an injury expected to keep him sidelined until at least December. This stretch of success without their primary star is significant as Young can become a free agent next summer, potentially influencing the franchise's future direction.
Since Young's absence, the Hawks are outscoring opponents by an average of 10.1 points and are demonstrating improved offensive efficiency, ranking fifth in field-goal percentage and eighth in three-point percentage. Paradoxically, the team's assist numbers have surged to the league's highest at 31.1 per game, with Jalen Johnson emerging as a key offensive force, averaging 22 points, 7.4 assists, and 11 rebounds.
Dyson Daniels is also stepping up at point guard, contributing significantly in assists and shooting efficiency, and seven Hawks are now averaging double-digit scoring. Defensively, the Hawks have also seen a marked improvement without Young, boasting the second-best defensive rating in the NBA during this period.
The starting lineup now includes strong defenders in the backcourt, leading to increased steals and blocks. This unexpected success and improved team play without Trae Young are prompting the Hawks to re-evaluate their strategy regarding his potential free agency and contract extension.
