CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – FEBRUARY 11: CJ McCollum, wearing #3 for the Atlanta Hawks, is seen watching his shot during the first half of a basketball game against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on February 11, 2026, in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by David Jensen/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Following consecutive losses, the Brooklyn Nets journeyed to Oklahoma City to challenge the Thunder. Despite a closer contest, the outcome mirrored their recent form, as the Nets fell 105-86, marking their third defeat in a row.
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Tonight’s opponent, the Atlanta Hawks, are also keen to rebound. They hosted the Miami Heat on Friday night and suffered a devastating 31-point loss.
Where to follow the game
Catch the game on YES Network for TV, Gotham Sports for streaming, and WFAN on radio. Tip-off is scheduled for after 3:30 PM.
Injuries
Ziaire Williams will be absent for personal reasons, missing his second consecutive game. Ben Saraf and Josh Minott, along with the three two-way players, remain with Long Island.
Jonathan Kuminga will also be out.
The game
Atlanta secured victory in the initial matchup.
While perhaps not reaching the legendary status of Dominique Wilkins, Trae Young was synonymous with the Hawks for much of his tenure in Atlanta. With no extension in sight, the Hawks traded him to the Washington Wizards for CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert. Fortunately for current Hawks management, this move involving a franchise star isn’t considered as detrimental as the one that sent ‘Nique to the LA Clippers for a mere three months of Danny Manning. As noted by Wesley Morton of Peachtree Hoops:
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“Given the drama that surrounded his financials for half a season, the Hawks did do well to act early and turn the keys to the franchise over to Jalen Johnson. But frankly, they dealt Young at his lowest value and netted just so little in return (they couldn’t even muster one measly pick?).
Time will truly tell if the Wizards can build a consistent winner around Young. But without the benefit of hindsight, I’d have to say the team just barely passed this test — and certainly without flying colors.“
Only time will reveal the full impact.
The Hawks also moved Kristaps Porzingis, acquiring Kuminga and Buddy Hield in return. With Kuminga currently sidelined, we’ll delve into his contributions at a later date.
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Meanwhile, Jalen Johnson continues to excel in Atlanta. Johnson earned his first All-Star Game selection last week, showcasing his skills among the league’s elite. Johnson consistently threatens with triple-doubles and is proving to be pivotal for the team’s future resurgence.
Michael Porter Jr completed his inaugural back-to-back set of the season, making an impact on the stat sheet with 22/9/5/2 in 37 minutes, though his shooting touch was not quite up to par. Porter Jr has shot under 40 percent in four of his last five outings, all of which have resulted in Nets losses. Achieving victories now requires significant effort from the Nets, and a strong performance from Porter Jr will be crucial to secure a win tonight.
Nic Claxton is back and returning to his familiar territory. Having played college basketball in Georgia, Clax makes his return after missing two games due to an ankle sprain. While there’s no official word on a minutes restriction, expect him to be highly motivated competing in front of friends and family.
Claxton will face off against Onyeka Okongwu. OO stands as the Hawks’ lone prominent center, as the team has gradually transitioned away from Clint Capela and Porzingis throughout the 2020s.
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Player to watch: CJ McCollum
A recognizable face in new surroundings, McCollum joined the Hawks from the Washington Wizards in the trade for Young and has begun to settle into his new role. As a Hawk, CJ averages 19 points on .460/.374/.729 shooting splits. He’s currently operating off the bench, allowing Atlanta to give more minutes to their younger talent. McCollum provides veteran stability and valuable mentorship as the franchise embarks on a new chapter.
Nolan Traore has seamlessly integrated into the starting five, with his development evident throughout the season. According to our own Lucas Kaplan:
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“But when Traore is using a screen, then a re-screen, then finding an angle to attack, you see his prodigious speed in action. Of course, he looks so much more comfortable than he did at season’s beginning, putting defenders in jail and getting to two feet to pivot around. His assist-to-turnover ratio is nearing 2:1, and those jump-stops in the lane are a big reason why.
Other than patience and poise, the big key for Traore is how far he can probe into the lane with a live-dribble. That was the most worrisome part of his prospect profile to me — here was a speedy, penetrating guard whose handle was suspect in tight spaces. Traore has done a much better job lately extending his dribble, though old habits still rear their ugly head from time to time.“
The Hawks concede 28 shots per game inside the restricted area, ranking them fifth-highest in the NBA this season. Expect Nolan to challenge Atlanta’s defense, driving to the basket frequently. He has emerged as one of the team’s most captivating players to observe over the past two months, and as the season enters its final stretch, he will remain a focal point of our attention.
From the Vault
A moment of respect for Robert Duvall.
For additional insights, explore these sources: Peachtree Hoops, SB Nation NBA, New York Post, New York Daily News, Clutch Points, Nets Wire, Steve’s Newsletter
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