Hawks Clinch Playoff Spot After Cavs Win

The Hawks are back in the playoffs after beating the Cavaliers 124-102 on Friday. Atlanta is 46-35 and clinched its first postseason spot since 2022-23. The turnaround came after Trae Young was traded to the Wizards on Jan. 9, when the Hawks were 18-21. Jalen Johnson led the way with 22.6 points, 10.3 rebounds and 7.9 assists in 72 games. Nickeil Alexander-Walker jumped to 20.9 points per game, while CJ McCollum has added 18.4 since arriving in the trade. Atlanta plays Miami on Sunday before opening the playoffs April 18 or April 19.