Kristaps Porzingis is embracing a new chapter with the Atlanta Hawks, suggesting that the move could offer a better fit for him than his previous stint with the Boston Celtics. In a recent interview, the veteran forward center acknowledged the intense pressure that came with playing for a title or bust team like Boston and expressed appreciation for the more balanced expectations in Atlanta.
“Maybe even better than Boston, where it was championship or bust,” Porzingis said, via Sports Studija and Basketball Sphere.
Porzingis played a key role in the Celtics’ 2024 championship run, averaging 19.8 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 2.0 assists on 48% shooting. His ability to space the floor and provide scoring from the perimeter was vital, but his time in Boston was also marred by injuries and relentless scrutiny.
Now in Atlanta, Porzingis has a chance to reset. With the Hawks not considered immediate title contenders, he sees an opportunity to take on a larger role without the suffocating pressure to win it all. He highlighted the team’s recent near-playoff runs and the room for growth, signaling optimism about his potential impact.
The trade marks a fresh opportunity not only for Porzingis but also for the Hawks. As Atlanta shifts into a new era following the departure of Dejounte Murray, Porzingis brings much-needed defense, shooting, and veteran leadership. Playing alongside star point guard Trae Young, he’s expected to anchor the frontcourt and possibly see more touches than he did in Boston’s crowded lineup.
With career averages of 19.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, Porzingis is well-positioned to become a central figure in Atlanta’s efforts to reestablish itself as a playoff contender. He also brings leadership and experience to a young Hawks roster, offering guidance to developing players like Jalen Johnson, Kobe Bufkin, and Onyeka Okongwu.
While the spotlight in Boston may have been brighter, Porzingis seems content with a setting where he can lead, grow, and contribute without constant title expectations. For him, Atlanta may offer something more valuable than rings a rhythm and role that better suits his strengths at this stage in his career.
