The rivalry between the Atlanta Hawks and Boston Celtics continues to be one of the most exciting matchups in the NBA. With decades of competitive history and a new generation of stars leading both franchises, the matchup always delivers close scores, high energy and impressive player stats. This updated 2026 guide gives a full overview of recent results head to head statistics, historical context and key player performances from both teams.
Head to Head Overview
The Hawks and Celtics have one of the longest running matchups in NBA history. Across regular season meetings, the Celtics hold the advantage, but the Hawks continue to close the gap with strong performances in recent seasons.
Regular season meetings 396
Atlanta Hawks win 151
Boston Celtics win 245
The rivalry has intensified in the last few years with multiple one possession games, overtime battles and standout performances on both sides.
Recent Hawks vs Celtics Games 2024 to 2025
The most recent officially completed matchups come from the 2024 to 2025 season. These games provide the latest confirmed data before the 2025 to 2026 season begins.
January 18 2025
Hawks 119
Celtics 115
This intense overtime win for Atlanta was one of the best games of the season.
Top Hawks stats
Trae Young 28 points 11 assists
Dyson Daniels 23 points
Onyeka Okongwu 19 points 13 rebounds
Jalen Johnson 14 points 13 rebounds
Top Celtics stats
Jaylen Brown 24 points 11 rebounds 8 assists
Jayson Tatum 23 points 8 rebounds 7 assists
November 12 2024
Hawks 117
Celtics 116
A one point win that highlighted Atlantas late game execution.
November 4 2024
Celtics 123
Hawks 93
Boston took control early in this matchup with strong defense and efficient shooting.
These recent matchups continue to show just how unpredictable the rivalry has become, with every meeting bringing a new set of standout performances and exciting finishes.
Season Comparison Hawks vs Celtics 2024 to 2025
Atlanta Hawks Strengths
Fast paced offense
High scoring perimeter attacks
Strong guard leadership
Rebounding and putback scoring through athletic bigs
Boston Celtics Strengths
Two way wings
Consistent elite scoring from Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown
Strong defensive rotations
High percentage shooting in late game scenarios
Both teams bring very different styles but their matchups often end in close high scoring finishes that make the rivalry must watch basketball every season.
Hawks vs Celtics Player Matchups to Watch in 2026
Trae Young vs Boston Perimeter Defense
Trae Young continues to be the center of the Hawks offense with his mix of scoring and playmaking. Boston typically assigns multiple defenders to slow him down including switches from wings and forwards.
Jayson Tatum vs Hawks Frontcourt
Tatum remains one of the most difficult covers in the NBA with his size shooting range and versatility. He frequently posts strong scoring numbers against Atlanta.
Okongwu and Hawks Bigs vs Celtics Interior Rotation
Rebounding and interior defense often determine the tone of the matchup. Atlanta relies on Okongwu and Johnson to control the paint while Boston counters with versatile bigs and strong help defense.
New 2026 Outlook and Expectations
While there are no officially recorded Hawks vs Celtics games for 2026 yet we can project expectations based on current team direction roster development and recent matchups.
What to Expect in 2026
Closer and more competitive games
Potential playoff style intensity even in regular season
Emerging young talent on both teams stepping into bigger roles
High scoring matchups driven by pace and shot volume
More statistical battles between Trae Young and Jayson Tatum
Key Questions for 2026
Will the Hawks improve their defensive consistency
Can Boston continue their dominant wing play throughout the new season
Which young players will break out in the 2026 matchups
How will roster changes impact head to head performance
Projected Player Impact in 2026
Trae Young is expected to remain the top scorer and playmaker for Atlanta
Jayson Tatum will likely continue posting strong scoring and rebounding numbers
Jaylen Brown should continue being a two way impact player
Hawks frontcourt growth may shift the rebounding advantage
Even without finalized box scores the 2026 season is expected to bring fresh intensity to the rivalry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who leads the all time record
The Boston Celtics lead the all time head to head series
What was the latest confirmed game
The latest completed game was on January 18 2025, which the Hawks won 119 to 115
Do we have 2026 match stats
Not yet. The 2026 games have not been officially recorded or released
Which players usually perform best
Trae Young, Jayson Tatu,m and Jaylen Brown usually put up the strongest numbers
Are Hawks vs Celtics games usually close
Ye,s many recent matchups have ended within one to five points
