Atlanta, GA, October 17, 2025
News Summary
The Atlanta Hawks will take on the Houston Rockets in a preseason game at State Farm Arena, marking the end of their preseason schedule. The matchup features key players like Trae Young and Kristaps Porzingis for the Hawks, while the Rockets will be without star players such as Kevin Durant and Clint Capela. Recent roster changes for the Hawks include the signing of Lamont Butler, while the Rockets aim to maintain their undefeated preseason record following a previous victory over Atlanta. Both teams are gearing up for the regular season.
Atlanta, GA – The Atlanta Hawks are set to host the Houston Rockets in a preseason game at State Farm Arena tonight, marking the conclusion of their preseason schedule. The Hawks’ starting lineup will feature guard Trae Young, guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker, forward Zaccharie Risacher, forward Onyeka Okongwu, and center Kristaps Porzingis. However, Dyson Daniels and Jalen Johnson will not participate in the game.
The Hawks bench will include guard Reed Sheppard, guard Aaron Holiday, forward Josh Okogie, forward Isaiah Crawford, and center Jeff Green. Earlier this week, the Hawks made notable roster changes by signing Lamont Butler, M.J. Walker, and Deivon Smith, although only Butler remains on the roster after the waivers were requested for Walker and Smith. Smith averaged 5.0 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists during the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas this year, showcasing potential that lasted throughout his collegiate career where he played 139 games with averages of 8.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.1 steals.
Walker, who appeared in two NBA games with the Phoenix Suns during the 2021-22 season, also has experience with 132 career NBA G League games. He played 120 collegiate games at Florida State, averaging 9.0 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 1.6 assists across four seasons. Butler had a standout performance at Kentucky, averaging 11.4 points, 4.3 assists, and 2.9 rebounds in the previous season.
On the other hand, the Rockets are missing several key players, including Kevin Durant, Alperen Sengun, and Clint Capela, as they rest ahead of their regular-season opener against the Oklahoma City Thunder. In their previous matchup against the Hawks, second-year guard Reed Sheppard of the Rockets delivered an impressive performance, scoring 29 points and contributing with 6 assists, 6 rebounds, 4 steals, and 3 blocks in just 29 minutes of play. Sheppard remarkably shot 54.5% from the field and 38.5% from three-point range during that game.
The Rockets concluded their preseason with a victory over the Hawks, winning the game 133-115, and ending the preseason as one of only three undefeated teams. Sheppard’s performance has made him a contender for a starting spot in the Rockets’ lineup due to the absence of veteran guard Fred VanVleet, who is sidelined with a knee injury.
Key Player Summaries
- Reed Sheppard: 29 points, 6 assists, 6 rebounds, 4 steals, 3 blocks
- Deivon Smith: 5.0 points, 2.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists (NBA Summer League)
- M.J. Walker: Played 2 NBA games, 132 G League games; 9.0 points at FSU
- Lamont Butler: 11.4 points, 4.3 assists, 2.9 rebounds (Kentucky)
Upcoming Schedule
The regular season for both the Hawks and the Rockets is on the horizon, with the Hawks preparing for another challenging season in the NBA.
FAQ
What teams are playing in the preseason game tonight?
The Atlanta Hawks are hosting the Houston Rockets in a preseason game at State Farm Arena tonight.
Who are the starting players for the Atlanta Hawks?
The starting lineup for the Hawks includes: G: Trae Young, G: Nickeil Alexander-Walker, F: Zaccharie Risacher, F: Onyeka Okongwu, C: Kristaps Porzingis.
Are there any injured players for the Hawks?
Dyson Daniels and Jalen Johnson will not play for the Hawks.
Which players were recently signed by the Hawks?
Earlier this week, the Hawks signed Lamont Butler, M.J. Walker, and Deivon Smith, but only Butler remains on the roster after waivers were requested for Walker and Smith.
How did Reed Sheppard perform against the Hawks?
Rockets second-year guard Reed Sheppard scored 29 points, contributing with 6 assists, 6 rebounds, 4 steals, and 3 blocks in 29 minutes against the Hawks.
What was the final score of the last game played between the Hawks and Rockets?
The Rockets won the game against the Hawks 133-115, concluding the preseason as one of only three undefeated teams.
Key Features of the Preseason Game
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Home Team | Atlanta Hawks |
| Away Team | Houston Rockets |
| Winning Score | Rockets 133 |
| Losing Score | Hawks 115 |
| Preseason Record Completion | Rockets finished undefeated |
| Players Missing from Rockets | Kevin Durant, Alperen Sengun, Clint Capela |
| Hawks Players Not Participating | Dyson Daniels, Jalen Johnson |
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Additional Resources
- NBA Game Box Score
- Wikipedia
- Sports Illustrated: Hawks vs. Rockets Starting Lineups
- Google Search: Houston Rockets vs Atlanta Hawks
- Peachtree Hoops: Hawks Preseason Recap
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Atlanta Hawks
- Fox Sports: Rockets vs. Hawks Game Boxscore
- Google News: Atlanta Hawks
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
