ATLANTA, GA – The Atlanta Hawks were positioned to upset the Charlotte Hornets, who had clinched eight consecutive wins, during the middle of the fourth quarter on their home court. After erasing a nine-point deficit, the Hawks took a three-point lead thanks to a three-pointer by Zaccharie Risacher with under eight minutes remaining. However, the Hawks quickly lost control as they cooled off in the closing minutes, which allowed the Hornets to secure their ninth straight victory.
Rebounding Deficit Played Critical Role in the Outcome
At first glance, the game’s scoreline suggested the Hawks were competitive, but the critical difference emerged on the glass. The Hornets dominated the boards with a +19 rebounding margin, a major element that ultimately determined the game’s result. This advantage provided the Hornets with more second-chance opportunities, undermining the Hawks’ efforts throughout the contest.
Jalen Johnson Acknowledges Rebounding Weakness
Jalen Johnson pointed to rebounding as a pivotal factor in the Hawks’ struggles.
“The rebounding was a huge thing coming into the game,”
Johnson said.
“I just don’t think we did the best job on the glass tonight. I gotta be better on the glass, but we also gave up a lot of open looks, and that was a part of it too. Overall, I think we played a solid game.”
Coach Quin Snyder Reflects on the Battle for Possession
Atlanta Hawks head coach Quin Snyder noted the early success on the boards but stressed the need for persistent effort.
“I thought in the beginning of the game we did a really good job on the glass, and we were able to get out,”
Snyder stated.
“I think we were playing well during that point. A lot of it, you just have to grind on it, on both ends, to the extent that we can close that gap with us getting more offensive rebounds. That’s another way to address it, it’s the possession game. It’s something that’s been a focal point for us from Day 1, whether it’s taking care of the ball, crashing, or giving up offensive rebounds.”
Hornets’ Rebounding Edge Highlighted by Key Contributors
Moussa Diabate led the Hornets with 15 rebounds, including five offensive boards, significantly contributing to their advantage. Ryan Kalkbrenner’s five rebounds, four of which were offensive, also amplified Charlotte’s control over possessions. In total, the Hornets secured 16 offensive rebounds, starkly eclipsing the Hawks’ five offensive boards and underscoring Atlanta’s struggle in securing second-chance points this season.
Jalen Johnson’s Scoring Spurt Offers Midgame Spark
Despite rebounding challenges, the Hawks remained competitive late into the game, largely due to Jalen Johnson’s efforts. Johnson finished with 31 points, 25 of which came in the second half as he found ways to influence the game beyond scoring.
“I might miss my first couple shots in the game, and other guys might have it going, so that opens up for me to playmake,”
Johnson explained.
“Obviously, when the time is right, I pick my spots, I’ll be aggressive when I need to be, and that approach has helped me to stay even keel when I’m not shooting the ball well to start the game.”
Looking Ahead: Hawks Aim to Improve Against Timberwolves
The rebounding deficit ultimately impeded the Hawks from overtaking the Hornets, but the team showed resilience and potential for growth. Atlanta will seek to address these weaknesses as they prepare to face the Minnesota Timberwolves on February 9, which presents an opportunity to build on their efforts and close the gap in critical areas like rebounding and possession management.
Zacch is 4-4 from distance tonight ♨️♨️♨️♨️
18-7 run to open the 4th and take the lead! pic.twitter.com/l4b7bDrpNW
— Atlanta Hawks (@ATLHawks) February 8, 2026
