If you're asking what time do the Atlanta Hawks play today, you probably already know they've got a massive test on their hands. It’s Saturday, January 17, 2026. Tonight, the Hawks are hosting the Boston Celtics at State Farm Arena.
The tip-off is set for 7:30 PM ET.
Doors usually open about an hour before, so if you're heading down to the Gulch or grabbing a beer near Centennial Olympic Park, keep that clock in mind. This isn't just another mid-season slog. It's a "City Edition" game. That means the floor will look different, the jerseys are that sleek Peachtree design, and the energy in the building is usually a notch higher.
How to Watch the Hawks vs. Celtics Tonight
Maybe you aren't going to the arena. Honestly, watching from the couch is sometimes better anyway. You’ve got a few ways to catch the action.
If you’re in the local Atlanta market, FanDuel Sports Network South (formerly Bally Sports) is your primary home. For the Boston fans or those out of market, NBC Sports Boston will carry the feed.
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Streaming is where it gets a little tricky. You can use the FanDuel Sports Network app if you have a subscription. If you’re out of market, NBA League Pass is your best friend. Just remember those pesky blackout rules still apply if you're actually in Georgia.
Radio listeners can tune into 92.9 The Game. There’s something about Steve Holman’s voice that just makes a random Saturday night game feel like Game 7 of the Finals.
The State of the Squad: Injuries and Odds
The Hawks are sitting at 20-23 right now. It's been a rollercoaster. They just dropped two straight on a tough West Coast road trip against the Lakers and Blazers. Coming home should help, but the Celtics (25-15) are coming in as 3.5-point favorites according to the latest lines from FanDuel Sportsbook.
We also have some tough news on the roster front. Zaccharie Risacher has been ruled out. He’s dealing with a left knee injury and this will be his fifth game on the shelf. The team really misses his length on the perimeter.
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Dyson Daniels is another name to watch. Reports from Sports Illustrated earlier today suggest his status was finalized this morning, and having him available to harrass Boston’s guards is basically the only way Atlanta stays in this. Without him, the defense tends to leak points like a sieve.
The over/under is sitting at 229.5. That’s high. It suggests the oddsmakers expect a lot of running and not a whole lot of resistance at the rim.
Why This Game Actually Matters
It’s easy to look at a January schedule and tune out. Don't.
The Eastern Conference standings are a total mess this year. A win tonight doesn't just snap a losing streak; it builds confidence before a huge MLK Day game against the Bucks on Monday.
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Trae Young is still the engine. When he’s clicking with Jalen Johnson in transition, the Hawks are one of the most fun teams to watch in the league. But against a disciplined Boston defense? They have to be smart. No lazy turnovers at the top of the key.
Actionable Tips for Game Day
- Check the App: Download the Atlanta Hawks/State Farm Arena app. It’s the easiest way to manage tickets and honestly, the "Express Pick-up" for food is a lifesaver.
- Parking Hack: Don't try to park right at the arena unless you want to pay $50. Use the MARTA if you can. The GWCC/State Farm Arena station drops you literally at the front door.
- Weather Check: It's January in Atlanta. It might be 50 degrees or it might be 20. Check the forecast before walking from your parking deck.
If you are planning to bet, keep an eye on the injury report right up until 7:00 PM. In the NBA, a late scratch can change everything. For now, plan for a 7:30 PM start and hope the home crowd can carry them to an upset.
To get ready for the tip-off, make sure your streaming apps are updated or your tickets are added to your digital wallet to avoid those annoying "no signal" moments at the arena gate.