Bucks, Hawks Battle for Play-in Spot

Milwaukee looks to get back on track with Giannis' return as Atlanta aims to solidify position

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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The Milwaukee Bucks, led by the return of superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, host the Atlanta Hawks in a crucial game for both teams' playoff aspirations. The Bucks have lost three straight games despite Antetokounmpo's comeback, while the Hawks have won four in a row and five of their last six to stay in the hunt for the final play-in spot in the Eastern Conference.

Why it matters

This matchup between the Bucks and Hawks is significant as both teams jockey for position in the crowded Eastern Conference playoff race. Milwaukee is looking to right the ship and regain its form with Antetokounmpo back, while Atlanta is aiming to solidify its hold on a play-in tournament berth.

The details

Antetokounmpo returned to action for the Bucks on Monday after missing 15 games due to a calf injury, but Milwaukee was still handily defeated by the Boston Celtics. The Hawks, meanwhile, have been surging behind the play of first-time All-Star Jalen Johnson and offseason acquisition Nickeil Alexander-Walker. Atlanta ranks first in the NBA in assists per game, showcasing its ability to share the ball.

  • The Bucks and Hawks previously met on MLK Day, with Milwaukee edging Atlanta 112-110.
  • The teams will face off again on March 14, in a game that could have major implications for the Eastern Conference play-in race.

The players

Giannis Antetokounmpo

The Bucks' superstar forward, who leads the team in scoring, rebounding, and assists per game, returned from a calf injury on Monday.

Jalen Johnson

The Hawks' first-time All-Star, who is averaging a double-double this season and is a Wisconsin native.

Nickeil Alexander-Walker

The Hawks' offseason acquisition, who is averaging 19.8 points per game and has been a key contributor to Atlanta's recent success.

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What they’re saying

“It felt good, but a little bit rusty. Something new in my career being out for such a long time, multiple times. Definitely disrupted my rhythm, but I'm just happy I'm on the court, doesn't matter if I play 18, 20, 22, whatever.”

— Giannis Antetokounmpo (statenews.net)

“It's hard to focus collectively for 48 minutes. There's a selflessness that's required to defend no matter what's going on; that's what I saw (Sunday).”

— Quin Snyder, Hawks coach (statenews.net)

What’s next

The Bucks and Hawks will face off again on March 14, in a game that could have major implications for the Eastern Conference play-in race.

The takeaway

This matchup between the Bucks and Hawks is a crucial one in the crowded Eastern Conference playoff picture, as both teams look to solidify their position in the play-in tournament. The return of Giannis Antetokounmpo is a boost for Milwaukee, but the Hawks' balanced scoring attack and league-leading assist numbers make them a formidable opponent.