Hawks Secure Playoffs, LeBron Reaches 12,000 Assists

Atlanta Hawks clinch playoff berth, LeBron James hits historic assist milestone

Apr. 12, 2026 at 9:14am

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The NBA playoffs are set, with the Atlanta Hawks securing their spot and the Southeast Division title after a dominant win over the Cleveland Cavaliers. Meanwhile, LeBron James reached a remarkable 12,000 career assists, cementing his legacy as one of the league's all-time great passers.

Why it matters

The Hawks' playoff berth ends a five-year drought, showcasing the team's resiliency and competitiveness in a tight Eastern Conference race. LeBron's assist milestone underscores his unparalleled playmaking abilities and impact on the game over his illustrious career.

The details

The Hawks' victory was led by guard CJ McCollum, who scored 29 points to power the team's third-quarter surge that sealed the win. For LeBron, the 12,000 assists milestone puts him in elite company, joining only Magic Johnson, John Stockton, and Jason Kidd as the fourth player to reach that mark.

  • The Hawks clinched their playoff spot on April 11, 2026.
  • LeBron James reached 12,000 career assists in the Lakers' win over the Suns on the same night.

The players

CJ McCollum

The Hawks' star guard who led the team with 29 points in the clinching victory.

LeBron James

The Lakers' veteran superstar who became the fourth player in NBA history to reach 12,000 career assists.

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What they’re saying

“This is a huge accomplishment for our team. We've worked hard all season to get to this point, and I'm proud of the effort everyone has put in.”

— CJ McCollum, Hawks Guard

“Reaching 12,000 assists is a testament to my commitment to making my teammates better over the course of my career. I'm grateful to have played with so many great players who have helped me achieve this milestone.”

— LeBron James

What’s next

The Hawks will now focus on preparing for their first-round playoff matchup, while LeBron and the Lakers look to build momentum heading into the postseason.

The takeaway

The Hawks' playoff berth and LeBron's historic assist milestone are a testament to the competitive nature of the NBA, where individual brilliance and collective team effort both play a crucial role in shaping the league's narrative.