
Sat Jan 17 23:40:00 UTC 2026: ### Celtics Face Hawks in First Game Since Blockbuster Trade
The Story:
The Boston Celtics are set to face the Atlanta Hawks in Atlanta on Saturday, marking the first game between the two teams since a significant trade that sent Trae Young to the Washington Wizards. In return, the Hawks acquired CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert. The Celtics enter the game after a 119-114 victory over the Miami Heat, fueled by a standout performance from Anfernee Simons, who scored 39 points.
Key Points:
- The Celtics play the Hawks in their first game after the Trae Young trade.
- CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert are now playing for the Hawks.
- The Celtics defeated the Heat 119-114, with Anfernee Simons scoring 39 points.
- The game is scheduled for Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at State Farm Arena in Atlanta.
- Kristaps Porzingis of the Celtics is day-to-day with an Achilles injury.
- The Celtics have a season record of 25-15, while the Hawks are 20-23.
- The point spread favors Boston at -3.5, with an over/under of 229.5.
Key Takeaways:
- The trade of Trae Young signals a new direction for the Atlanta Hawks franchise.
- Anfernee Simons’ recent performance suggests he could be a crucial player for the Celtics moving forward.
- The game will be a test of how well the Hawks have adjusted to the absence of their star player and the addition of McCollum and Kispert.
- Kristaps Porzingis’ potential absence could impact the Celtics’ interior defense and scoring.
- The game’s outcome will provide insights into the current trajectory of both teams as they approach the midpoint of the season.