Hawks Clinch Playoff Spot and Southeast Division Title

CJ McCollum's 29 points lead Atlanta to blowout win over Cavaliers

Apr. 11, 2026 at 1:39am

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A dynamic, expressionist painting featuring vibrant neon brushstrokes and abstract shapes that capture the frenetic energy and movement of a basketball game, without any identifiable players or teams.The Hawks' high-octane offense and defensive intensity overwhelmed the short-handed Cavaliers, clinching a playoff spot and division title for the Atlanta squad.Atlanta Today

The Atlanta Hawks clinched a playoff spot and the Southeast Division title with a 124-102 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday night. CJ McCollum led the Hawks with 29 points, while Dyson Daniels recorded a triple-double. The Cavaliers were missing several key players due to injuries.

Why it matters

The Hawks' division title and playoff berth mark a significant turnaround after several seasons of struggling to make the postseason. This win solidifies Atlanta's position as a contender in the Eastern Conference.

The details

The Hawks used a big third quarter to pull away from the Cavaliers, going on a 16-0 run to take a 27-point lead. Dyson Daniels recorded his second career triple-double with 13 points, 12 assists and 10 rebounds. Nickeil Alexander-Walker added 18 points for Atlanta, while Jalen Johnson had 18 points and 9 rebounds before sitting out the final 10 minutes.

  • The Hawks clinched the Southeast Division title on April 11, 2026.
  • The Hawks secured a playoff spot with the win on April 11, 2026.

The players

CJ McCollum

A veteran guard who led the Hawks with 29 points in the win.

Dyson Daniels

A young Hawks player who recorded a triple-double with 13 points, 12 assists and 10 rebounds.

James Harden

The Cavaliers' leading scorer with 20 points in the loss.

Donovan Mitchell

The Cavaliers' leading scorer who missed the game due to a right ankle injury.

Jarrett Allen

The Cavaliers' starting center who missed the game due to a right knee injury.

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What they’re saying

“We've been working hard all season to get to this point, and I'm proud of the effort the team has put in. This division title is just the first step, and we're excited to keep pushing forward in the playoffs.”

— CJ McCollum, Hawks Guard

What’s next

The Hawks will host the Washington Wizards on Sunday as they prepare for the playoffs. The Cavaliers will visit the Wizards on Friday as they look to secure the 4th seed in the Eastern Conference.

The takeaway

The Hawks' division title and playoff berth are a testament to the team's resilience and growth over the past few seasons. With a balanced scoring attack and strong defensive play, Atlanta has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the Eastern Conference.