Onyeka Okongwu Returns to Atlanta's Starting Five For Matchup Against Charlotte

The Hawks aim to push for a playoff spot as they take on the surging Hornets.

Feb. 7, 2026 at 6:47pm

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The Atlanta Hawks have won six of their last eight games and now with the trade deadline behind them, they will aim to push for a playoff spot. Their next opponent is the Charlotte Hornets, who have won eight games in a row and finished the month of January with the third-best net rating in the NBA. The big news for the Hawks is that Onyeka Okongwu is back for the team after missing the last four games and he is the starting center for the Hawks tonight.

Why it matters

The Hawks are looking to make a playoff push, and this matchup against the red-hot Hornets will be a tough test. Okongwu's return to the starting lineup is a boost for the Hawks as they try to slow down Charlotte's impressive offense.

The details

The Hawks' starting lineup tonight will be Dyson Daniels, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Zaccharie Risacher, Jalen Johnson, and Onyeka Okongwu. Charlotte's starting five of LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, Kon Knueppel, Miles Bridges, and Moussa Diabate has been playing extremely well on both ends of the floor and will be a major challenge for the Hawks. Jonatha Kuminga, the Hawks' most notable trade deadline addition, will not play tonight and is expected to make his debut after the All-Star break. Hield and Vincent, the other new additions, could see some playing time but their impact may be limited as they adjust to the team.

  • The Hawks and Hornets will tip off on February 8, 2026.

The players

Onyeka Okongwu

The starting center for the Atlanta Hawks who is returning to the lineup after missing the last four games.

LaMelo Ball

The star point guard for the Charlotte Hornets who has led the team's impressive eight-game winning streak.

Jonatha Kuminga

The Hawks' most notable trade deadline addition who will not play in this game but is expected to make his debut after the All-Star break.

Jock Landale

The Hawks' recent acquisition who had an impressive debut, scoring 26 points, grabbing 11 rebounds, dishing 5 assists, and blocking 4 shots in a win over the Jazz.

Moussa Diabate

The Hornets' starting center who will be a tough matchup on the boards for the Hawks.

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What’s next

The Hawks and Hornets will face off again after the All-Star break, providing another opportunity for the Hawks to gain ground in the playoff race.

The takeaway

This matchup between the Hawks and the surging Hornets will be a crucial test for Atlanta as they look to solidify their position in the playoff hunt. Okongwu's return to the starting lineup is a positive sign, but the Hawks will need to find a way to slow down Charlotte's impressive offense led by LaMelo Ball.