Celtics Set to Host the Hawks as Atlanta Looks to Extend Its Win Streak
The Boston Celtics are set to return home Wednesday night to host the Atlanta Hawks in an Eastern Conference matchup that will bring momentum and positioning into focus for both teams. Boston currently stands at 29-17, sitting second in the conference and continuing to solidify its place among the East’s top contenders. Atlanta, at 23-25 and sitting 10th in the Eastern Conference standings, is riding a three-game winning streak as it looks to enter the playoff conversation. While the Celtics remain firmly established near the top, the Hawks view this matchup as an opportunity to test their recent form against elite competition, having lost to the Celtics 132-106 the last time the teams faced each other.
Boston has been strong against conference opponents this season, continuing to lean on perimeter shooting as a core strength and averaging 15.7 made three-pointers per game, a notable edge against an Atlanta defense that allows 13.3 per contest. Derrick White has provided steady production, averaging 17.6 points while shooting 39.1 percent on the court. Jaylen Brown remains the offensive focal point, averaging 26.2 points over the last 10 games. Even with injuries affecting the rotation, Boston has maintained defensive consistency, holding opponents in check. That balance on both ends has allowed the Celtics to remain competitive despite ongoing lineup adjustments.
Atlanta enters the matchup playing its most consistent basketball, averaging 115 points per contest. The Hawks have shown offensive balance and ball movement, ranking high in assists and steals during that span, though conference play has remained a challenge against Eastern Conference opponents. Jalen Johnson has been the centerpiece of Atlanta’s recent success, averaging 23 points and 10.4 rebounds, while Nickeil Alexander-Walker has emerged as a perimeter threat, averaging approximately four made three-pointers over the last 10 games. Injuries continue to shape Atlanta’s lineup, placing added pressure on execution and depth.
The defining battle in this matchup centers on perimeter efficiency and tempo control. Boston’s ability to generate clean three-point looks will test Atlanta’s defensive rotations, while the Hawks’ recent success has been driven by ball movement and aggressive playmaking. Atlanta’s path to staying competitive hinges on limiting defensive breakdowns and keeping the game within reach late, particularly given its mixed results in close contests. Bench production and perimeter defense could quietly determine whether this game remains tight or begins to separate in Boston’s favor.
This matchup projects as a competitive contest shaped by execution rather than pace alone. Boston enters with the advantage of home court, shooting efficiency, and defensive discipline, while Atlanta brings momentum and confidence from its recent winning streak. Fans should watch whether the Hawks can sustain their offensive rhythm against a structured Celtics defense and whether Boston can establish early control through perimeter shooting. If the Celtics execute to their standard and avoid defensive lapses, they are well positioned to protect home court and secure another conference win.
