3 Key Takeaways From Hawks' 2026-27 Preseason Opener

The Atlanta Hawks now have one preseason game under their belt. It didn't go as they'd hoped, as they suffered a 132-123 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies, but there are plenty of takeaways to be had.

Longtime NBA fans know to take preseason results with a grain of salt. The game's final score is less important than what actually happened throughout the game. If you watched this one, you know there was plenty to observe:

Here are three important takeaways from the contest.

Flemings didn't have a world-class performance. He finished with 11 points on 4/11 shooting from the field and 2/6 shooting from long range.

The most important part of those stats is the sheer volume. Flemings tied for the team lead in field goal attempts. He wasn't shy about letting it fly.

That's encouraging. The biggest concern about Flemings is his ability to score in the half-court. The Hawks know he'll be a strong defender and capable passer. Willingness is half of the equation when it comes to scoring.

Now, Flemings just needs to flash more ability.

A certain Roundtable author has advocated for releasing Kispert more than once...

But that same author would be happy to be wrong.

Last night, Kispert made those suggestions look foolish. He had 19 points on 7/11 shooting from the field and 4/7 from long-range. We know Kispert can heat up from downtown, but he even flashed some midrange mastery in this contest.

Of course, this is only one game - and a preseason game no less. Kispert did not secure his long-term future with the Hawks in this game. That would be impossible in a preseason contest, but he did make his case for a rotation spot in 2026-27.

Although, we'll reiterate once more to take this game with a grain of salt.

Jalen Johnson didn't do much in this one. An early midrange make was encouraging.

And it would be the only field goal he'd make in the whole game.

That's fine. Johnson was 1/8 in 18 minutes. Hawks fans should not be worried that his game has fallen off a cliff.

He was only trying so hard in a preseason contest.

Johnson also deferred to Flemings and Kispert. Now is the time to experiment. There's no reason to worry about his subpar game or Dyson Daniels'. The Hawks will be fine.

Once the regular season begins, they're going to look different.