Hawks fans remain hopeful despite a rough end to the season

Three basketball players sit on the sidelines and watch the game.
Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson (1) looks on after Game 6 in a first-round NBA basketball playoffs series against the New York Knicks Thursday, April 30, 2026, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Despite a tough final game of the season, the Atlanta Hawks made huge strides this year. 

The young team gave fans something to root for after several roster changes propelled the Hawks into the playoffs. 

Atlanta even held a 2-1 lead in the series against a higher-seeded New York Knicks team with championship aspirations.