Hawks' Alexander-Walker, Flemings, and Johnson face pivotal 2026-27 season

The Atlanta Hawks enter the 2026-27 season with key players Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Kingston Flemings, and Jalen Johnson needing to prove themselves. Alexander-Walker, the NBA's reigning Most Improved Player, aims to show his scoring ability is sustainable after a significant jump last season. Flemings, a rookie, must demonstrate he can score consistently after struggling in Summer League, while Johnson seeks to assert himself as a leader and a perennial All-NBA caliber player. The team's performance last season raises expectations, especially after facing the championship-winning New York Knicks in the playoffs.

• 3:47 AMYahoo Sports — 3 Atlanta Hawks With the Most to Prove in 2026-27