Hawks Struggle in Crucial Playoff Game Against Magic

ATLANTA, Ga. — The Atlanta Hawks faced a challenging postseason matchup against the Orlando Magic on April 15, falling behind significantly early in the first quarter.

Despite attempts to rally, the Hawks couldn’t narrow the gap to 10 points before halftime, struggling with a dismal shooting percentage of 21.4% from three-point range and free throw line inefficiency.

Head coach Quin Snyder‘s decisions further complicated the Hawks’ situation. With the starting frontcourt players Mouhamed Gueye and Onyeka Okongwu in foul trouble, Snyder opted to rely on a mix of reserves, including rookie Dominic Barlow and veteran Georges Niang. This choice left many, including “Locked On Hawks” host Brad Rowland, frustrated.

“I’ve done this rant plenty of times, but to play Niang/Barlow minutes in the first half of a postseason game is concerning,” Rowland said on social media.

Additionally, Rowland criticized Snyder for keeping Gueye — the Hawks’ best healthy defensive big man — on the bench for an extended period, from the 4:01 mark of the first quarter until 6:30 of the second. “Look, Mouhamed Gueye is a limited player and not a savior in his second NBA season,” Rowland added. “But with 2 fouls given the roster the Hawks have available and the opponent they are facing, he should have remained on the court.”

At the time Gueye was benched, the Hawks were trailing 20-15; they found themselves in a deep 47-30 hole upon his return.

The Hawks managed to cut the deficit with a brief 6-0 run, ending the first half trailing 61-47. However, they continued to face significant challenges as the Magic quickly regained a double-digit lead after halftime.

Despite having one more opportunity to reach the postseason, the Hawks’ performance raised serious concerns. The team initially had a chance to secure a playoff berth but faltered as the Milwaukee Bucks improved in the second half.

As head coach of the Hawks, Snyder holds a record of 76-88 over two full seasons. He has dealt with injuries and roster changes during his tenure. However, decisions like those made against the Magic will attract even more scrutiny if the Hawks cannot overcome their struggles.