Atlanta, October 5, 2025
News Summary
The Atlanta Hawks are set to begin their preseason with a matchup against the Houston Rockets at 8 p.m. This year brings significant roster changes, including the addition of notable players like Kristaps Porzingis and Jalen Johnson. With the team striving for a stronger position in the Eastern Conference, expectations are high for performance and teamwork this season. Following a disappointing previous season, the Hawks are eager to capitalize on their new talent and enhance their playoff prospects.
Atlanta
The Atlanta Hawks will kick off their preseason on Monday night against the Houston Rockets, with a tipoff scheduled for 8 p.m. This highly anticipated season is buoyed by significant roster changes, as the Hawks aim to rank among the best teams in the Eastern Conference.
This season is especially exciting for the Hawks, as they have acquired new talent alongside their existing core, marking it as the most anticipated since they reached the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021. Notable players to watch during the preseason opener include Kristaps Porzingis, Jalen Johnson, and newcomer Newell. Fans can also expect that the Hawks might rest some key players as they navigate through the preseason, although no injury reports have been released.
Kristaps Porzingis is viewed as one of the most talented big men that Trae Young has ever played with, raising the stakes and expectations for the upcoming season. In the previous season, Porzingis averaged 19.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.5 blocks in 28.8 minutes. He boasted a career-best 3-point shooting percentage of 41.2%, ranking 25th in the NBA and second highest among all 7-footers. Porzingis set a record for career high with eight 3-pointers in two games last season, making him the only 7-footer with multiple games featuring at least eight 3-pointers.
Returning from a season-ending shoulder injury, Jalen Johnson is another player generating excitement, having been on the track for his first All-Star appearance prior to his injury. The Hawks’ rookie, Newell, is set for his first opportunity to play alongside established players like Trae Young, although his role might be somewhat limited due to the team’s depth.
Before heading to Houston, the Hawks practiced in Brookhaven, focusing on teamwork and preparation. Newcomer guards Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Luke Kennard are expected to play significant roles this season, contributing to the dynamics and shooting capabilities of the team. During practice, Porzingis demonstrated his skills in shooting from beyond the arc, while Kennard participated in a shootout with teammates.
Last season, the Hawks finished with a record of 40-42, marking their eighth consecutive season with 43 or fewer wins. Hawks head coach Quin Snyder noted the significance of the preseason as a valuable chance to test different lineups and gauge which configurations work best.
The Hawks will face the Memphis Grizzlies and have home games against the Miami Heat and the Rockets as part of their preseason schedule. Their regular season will commence at State Farm Arena against the Toronto Raptors on October 22. ESPN has suggested that while the roster changes are promising, Hawks fans should maintain a measured perspective on their expectations for this season.
The Hawks have not only improved their draft capital, but they have also gained three rotation players enhancing the overall strength of the team. An emphasis on addressing defensive needs has been achieved through the acquisition of Porzingis as a rim protector and Alexander-Walker as a defensive guard. Despite earlier doubts about Trae Young‘s era, the organization is now perceived as having a promising future, even if the expectations this season may not fully materialize.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Atlanta Hawks preseason opener?
The Atlanta Hawks will begin their preseason on Monday night against the Houston Rockets, with an 8 p.m. tipoff.
Who are the key players to watch in the preseason opener?
Key players to watch during the preseason opener include Kristaps Porzingis, Jalen Johnson, and newcomer first-round pick Newell.
What was Kristaps Porzingis’ performance last season?
Porzingis averaged 19.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.5 blocks in 28.8 minutes during the previous season, with a career-best 3-point shooting percentage of .412%.
How did the Hawks perform last season?
Last year, the Hawks finished the season with a 40-42 record, marking their eighth consecutive season with 43 or fewer wins.
What is significant about this season for the Hawks?
This season is the most anticipated since reaching the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021, with significant new talent added to their core lineup.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Preseason Opener | Against Houston Rockets, 8 p.m. on Monday |
| Key Players to Watch | Kristaps Porzingis, Jalen Johnson, Newell |
| Previous Season Performance | 40-42 record |
| Rookie Newell | First-round pick, role may be limited |
| Coach’s Perspective | Importance of preseason to test lineups |
| Upcoming Regular Season Start | Against Toronto Raptors on October 22 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Atlanta Falcons Finalize Roster Ahead of NFL Season
Atlanta Falcons Announce Initial 53-Man Roster for Upcoming Season
Kirk Cousins Disappointed Over Falcons’ Draft Decision
Additional Resources
- The Atlanta Voice: Hawks Preseason Opener Against the Houston Rockets
- SI: Three Players to Watch in Atlanta’s Preseason Opener
- Hawks.com: Atlanta Hawks Announce 2025 Preseason Schedule
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Atlanta Hawks
- NBC: How to Watch and Stream 2025 NBA Preseason Games
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.
