The Atlanta Hawks delivered another emphatic statement Thursday night, dismantling the Washington Wizards 126–96 at State Farm Arena in a commanding performance that left little doubt from start to finish. The victory marked Atlanta’s third straight win over Washington and showcased a team firing on all cylinders during a crucial stretch of the season.
For the second consecutive game, the Hawks controlled the contest wire-to-wire — the first time they’ve accomplished back-to-back start-to-finish victories since March 2022. Even more impressive, Atlanta held Washington under 100 points in both wins, something the team had not done in consecutive games in nearly a year.
Defense once again set the tone.
Atlanta swarmed passing lanes, pressured ball handlers, and converted turnovers into easy offense. The Hawks finished with 12 steals, marking their 28th game this season with double-digit thefts. They now hold a 19–9 record in games where they reach that mark, underscoring how disruptive defense fuels their success. Their season total of games with 10 or more steals ranks among the best in the Eastern Conference.
While the defense created chaos, the offense operated with precision. Atlanta tallied 30 assists, its 37th game this season with at least 30 — the most in the NBA and the second-highest total in a single season in franchise history. The ball zipped from side to side, finding open shooters and cutters as Washington struggled to keep pace.
The night’s biggest individual performance came from Corey Kispert, who erupted for a career-high 33 points off the bench. Kispert shot 11-for-19 from the field and knocked down six three-pointers, also grabbing six rebounds in an electrifying 28-minute outing. His scoring barrage stretched the floor and buried any hopes of a Wizards comeback. In doing so, he became the first Hawks reserve to record at least 30 points and five rebounds since Danilo Gallinari in 2021.
Dyson Daniels orchestrated the game on both ends, delivering one of his most complete performances of the season. He finished with 13 points, 11 assists, four rebounds, and five steals — tying his season high in steals. The performance marked his 37th multi-steal game of the year, the most in the NBA, further cementing his reputation as one of the league’s premier perimeter defenders.
Daniels also joined rare company, becoming just the fourth player this season to post at least 10 points, 10 assists, and five steals in a single game. His relentless defensive pressure repeatedly disrupted Washington’s offensive flow while his playmaking kept Atlanta’s attack humming.
Veteran guard CJ McCollum provided steady scoring punch with 25 points, six rebounds, and three assists in just 26 minutes. His ability to create shots off the dribble stabilized the offense whenever the pace slowed, and his experience showed in key moments when Washington attempted brief runs.
Jonathan Kuminga continued his strong start in a Hawks uniform, adding 17 points, nine rebounds, and three assists. Through his first two appearances with Atlanta, Kuminga has made an immediate impact with his athleticism, versatility, and efficient scoring, giving the Hawks another dynamic weapon on both ends of the floor.
Inside, Onyeka Okongwu anchored the paint with authority. He recorded 10 points, 11 rebounds, three assists, three blocks, and a steal, securing his 14th double-double of the season and the 65th of his career. It also marked his third straight double-double, tying the second-longest such streak of his career. His rim protection and rebounding dominance limited Washington’s second-chance opportunities and controlled the interior throughout the night.
From the opening minutes, Atlanta established physicality and pace. The Hawks jumped out to an early lead behind aggressive defense and efficient scoring, closing the first quarter with a double-digit advantage. Washington never managed to cut the deficit to a truly threatening margin as Atlanta answered every push with a run of its own.
For the Wizards, Will Riley led the effort with 14 points, 10 rebounds, and four assists, while Tre Johnson added 14 points on efficient shooting. However, Washington struggled to generate consistent offense against Atlanta’s pressure and could not match the Hawks’ depth or energy.
By the second half, the outcome was all but decided. Atlanta continued to extend the lead with balanced scoring, fast-break opportunities, and suffocating defense. The bench maintained intensity, ensuring there would be no late collapse or unnecessary drama.
Perhaps most encouraging for Atlanta was the collective nature of the performance. Multiple players contributed across categories, the defense remained locked in for all four quarters, and the offense never relied on a single star to carry the load. It was the blueprint for how dangerous this team can be when everyone is engaged.
The victory not only secured the season series dominance over Washington but also highlighted Atlanta’s growing momentum. Back-to-back blowout wins, elite ball movement, and relentless defense signal a team rounding into form at the right time.
If this version of the Hawks continues to show up — disciplined, unselfish, and aggressive — they won’t just be winning games. They’ll be sending a message to the rest of the league.
Thursday night’s 30-point demolition made that message loud and clear.
Next up, Atlanta will take on the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday, March 1, as the Hawks look to keep their winning momentum rolling.
