Hawks get glimpse of future while honoring the past

Jonathan Kuminga's 27 point debut stole headlines from Trae's return
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - FEBRUARY 24: Jonathan Kuminga #0 of the Atlanta Hawks dunks during the third quarter against the Washington Wizards at State Farm Arena on February 24, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - FEBRUARY 24: Jonathan Kuminga #0 of the Atlanta Hawks dunks during the third quarter against the Washington Wizards at State Farm Arena on February 24, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. Photo credit Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images

Tuesday night was supposed to be about the past. It was Trae Young’s first game back at State Farm Arena since the Atlanta Hawks traded him to the Washington Wizards, and the home crowd made sure the moment mattered, greeting their former star with a standing ovation and a lengthy video tribute. But by the final buzzer, the focus had shifted from nostalgia to possibility. In his team debut, trade-deadline addition Jonathan Kuminga poured in 27 points, offering a tantalizing glimpse of the Hawks’ next chapter — one that could soon feature Kuminga alongside Jalen Johnson and a prized draft pick this offseason.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images