Atlanta Hawks 128–81 Charlotte Hornets: match recap

Match recap

The Hawks demolished the Hornets 128-81, capitalizing on a catastrophic Charlotte shooting performance (21.6% from three) and dominating the assist column 37-21 to turn the game into a rout by halftime.

Atlanta flew out of the gates with crisp ball movement and efficient scoring, led by Jalen Johnson’s 19 points, 7 rebounds, and 8 assists on 9-of-13 shooting. Charlotte, missing three rotation players per injury reports, never found rhythm: they shot 21.6% from deep and mustered only 81 points with Naz Reid’s 17 points as the lone bright spot.

Key factors

• Charlotte's three-point shooting cratered at 21.6%, while Atlanta drilled 40% from deep, creating a massive 9.9 eFG% gap.
• The Hawks generated 37 assists to Charlotte's 21, reflecting superior spacing and ball movement against a short-handed Hornets defense.
• Atlanta Hawks beat Charlotte Hornets 128-81.

The Analyst's take

This was a statement opener for Atlanta, showcasing deep scoring and unselfish play against a depleted Charlotte squad. The Hornets’ shooting woes and lack of creation without their injured guards will be a recurring concern, while the Hawks’ balanced attack—seven players in double figures—signals dangerous offensive versatility.