Atlanta Just Demolished Cleveland 124-102 and Locked Up a Playoff Spot the Hawks Couldn't Miss
The Atlanta Hawks made their statement Friday night at State Farm Arena, and it was absolutely brutal. They're headed to the playoffs for the first time in two years, and they did it by absolutely dismantling the fourth-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers 124-102. This wasn't close. This wasn't competitive. The Hawks built a 36-point lead at one point and never looked back.
McCollum Was Unreal, Daniels Put Up a Triple-Double
CJ McCollum was the MVP of this thing, dropping 29 points with 6-of-8 shooting from three. But here's the crazy part: 25 of those 29 came in the first half alone. The man was unconscious before halftime even finished. Dyson Daniels, meanwhile, posted his second career triple-double with 13 points, 10 rebounds, and 12 assists. That's the kind of all-around game that changes momentum. Jalen Johnson chipped in 18 points and nine boards, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker scored 18 for the Hawks, who improved to 46-35 and will finish either fifth or sixth in the Eastern Conference.
🎲 Want to Make Tonight's Game More Interesting?
Kalshi lets you trade on real sports outcomes — not just spreads. It's the only federally regulated prediction market in the US, and it's available right here in Washington state.
New users get a FREE $10 just for signing up — no deposit required to claim it.
👉 Claim Your Free $10 at KalshiAtlanta's response after the All-Star break has been legitimately impressive. They're 20-8 since the break kicked off, which tells you everything about where this team's heading down the stretch.
The Cavs Were Shorthanded and It Showed
Cleveland came in without some major pieces. Donovan Mitchell was rested, Jarrett Allen didn't play, and Sam Merrill was out. That's a lot of firepower sitting on the sideline. James Harden still gave them 20 points and five assists, and Tyrese Proctor added 15 in the fourth quarter. Jaylon Tyson returned from a 10-game injury absence and scored 15, but it wasn't enough to keep pace with an Atlanta team that was simply locked in.
One notable moment: Harden became the seventh player ever to attempt 10,000 career free throws. LeBron James is the only active player with more attempts.
The Hawks close out the regular season at the Miami Heat. The Cavaliers, who snapped a four-game win streak but sit at 10-3 since March 17, will have home-court advantage in the first round regardless. But Friday night? That belonged to Atlanta.
🐦 What fans are saying on X
See the latest reactions and highlights from Seattle fans about .
View X conversation →This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.