Shortly after NBA free agency opened last summer, the Minnesota Timberwolves moved on from former Virginia Tech guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker. In a sign-and-trade with the Atlanta Hawks, they sent Alexander-Walker to Georgia.
Atlanta was looking to upgrade its shooting, and they targeted Alexander-Walker. Looking to get over the hump in the Eastern Conference and avoid the Play-In Tournament, the Hawks made some changes to finish in the Top 6. Right now, they are holding onto the No. 5 seed, but it is a tenuous spot, just two games clear of the No. 7-seed with three games remaining.
They appear to be avoiding the Play-In, and if they do, they can thank Alexander-Walker. On Monday night, the Hawks were edged, 108-105, at home to the New York Knicks, but in that loss, the former Hokies standout set a franchise record.
Former Virginia Tech standout Nickeil Alexander-Walker sets Hawks franchise record in loss to Knicks
It was another game where Alexander-Walker was feeling confident in his shot. He scored 36 points in 39 minutes with two rebounds and three assists. He was 12-for-19 from the field and 7-for-11 from behind the arc. His seven 3-pointers set the Hawks franchise record for 3-pointers in a season with 241.
NAW sets a NEW Hawks record ‼️
— Atlanta Hawks (@ATLHawks) April 7, 2026
Most made 3s in a single season 🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/8kIklvyfCl
Setting the franchise record in Atlanta for made 3-pointers says a lot. The record means he has made more than Kyle Korver and Trae Young, who was traded this season to the Washington Wizards. What a first season for Alexander-Walker with the Hawks.
The season is far from over. Atlanta has three games remaining against the Cleveland Cavaliers, in what could be a first-round playoff matchup. The two teams will play a home-and-home beginning Wednesday night in Ohio. The Hawks will close out the regular season in Miami on Sunday night against the Heat. It's going to be tough for Atlanta to finish in the Top 6, but it's certainly doable.