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Hawks’ small-ball problem already proving too large to ignore

The Hawks' strength in boxing out hasn't been able to prevent crashers from dominating the offensive glass - Atlanta is too small.

Published: Friday, 30 October 2026 at 3:00 PM
Hawks’ small-ball problem already proving too large to ignore
Key Things to Know
  • Ian Kearney argues the Atlanta Hawks' small-ball approach is undermining their defensive potential due to poor rebounding.
  • The Hawks rank third in boxout rate at 92.0% but sit sixth-worst in defensive rebound rate.
  • Writer Ian Kearney notes Onyeka Okongwu and Jock Landale struggle to prevent larger frontcourts from grabbing offensive boards.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Writer Ian Kearney argues that the Atlanta Hawks' commitment to small-ball lineups is undermining their overall defense. Despite a strong defensive guard trio of Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Dyson Daniels, and Luguentz Dort, the team ranks sixth-worst in defensive rebound rate, allowing opponents to capitalize on second-chance opportunities.

According to Kearney, Atlanta's undersized frontcourt featuring Onyeka Okongwu and Jock Landale struggles against larger opponents despite effective boxing out. Kearney suggests the franchise's reliance on small ball, including drafting undersized center Zuby Ejiofor, raises questions about whether the team needs to adjust its strategy.

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