The New Orleans Pelicans’ tiebreaker has created a meaningful shift for the Atlanta Hawks ahead of the 2026 NBA Draft.
While much of the focus remains on playoff performances and offseason moves, this development adds another layer to Atlanta’s long-term outlook. The NBA conducted its official tiebreaking process Monday afternoon, setting the draft order from 15 to 30 and resolving ties within the lottery.
One of those outcomes directly impacts Atlanta.
The Pelicans were awarded the seventh lottery slot, while the Dallas Mavericks landed eighth. On the surface, that may seem like a minor distinction. However, because of a prior trade, the implications extend far beyond New Orleans.
How the Pelicans Tiebreaker Boosts the Hawks’ 2026 Lottery Odds
The Pelicans tiebreaker matters because the Hawks own that pick.
During last year’s draft, New Orleans sent its 2026 pick to Atlanta as part of a trade for Derik Queen, the 13th overall pick. As a result, the Hawks will receive the more favorable pick between the Pelicans and the Milwaukee Bucks, who currently hold the 10th lottery slot. Milwaukee, in turn, will receive the lesser of the two selections.
That structure creates flexibility.
With New Orleans now slotted at seventh, the Hawks’ lottery position improves slightly. Instead of relying on a lower-end outcome, Atlanta now has a stronger baseline entering the lottery process. That matters more than it may initially seem.
Both the Pelicans and Mavericks picks carry a 29% chance of jumping into the top four and a 6.3% chance of landing the No. 1 overall pick. By securing the higher of the two tied positions, the Pelicans’ tiebreaker subtly increases Atlanta’s potential upside.
NBA Draft tiebreaker drawings happened today.
New Orleans will enter the lottery at No. 7 overall.
Atlanta gets whichever pick is higher between the Pelicans and Bucks.
The Hawks will also officially have the 23rd pick, via the Cavs.
— Brad Rowland (@BTRowland) April 20, 2026
Why the Hawks’ Lottery Position Just Got More Interesting
The Hawks’ place in the lottery is now more intriguing because of how it aligns with the team’s current trajectory.
Atlanta did not tank its way into this situation. Instead, the Hawks remained competitive, secured a playoff spot as a top-six seed, and still managed to hold valuable draft capital. That combination is rare.
New Orleans’ fate now enhances that position.
Now, Atlanta has a clearer path to a potential top-seven pick, with a real chance of moving into the top four. That possibility should excite fans, especially given how the roster has shown signs of growth.
Adding a high-level prospect to a playoff-caliber team changes expectations. It creates an opportunity to accelerate development while maintaining competitiveness. Whether the Hawks choose to draft a player or explore trade options, their improved lottery position gives them more leverage. That flexibility is key.
A Small Shift with Big Implications
The Pelicans’ tiebreaker may not dominate headlines, but its impact should not be overlooked.
In the lottery, small differences can lead to major outcomes. Moving from eighth to seventh may seem marginal, but it improves positioning and increases the chances of a favorable result. That is a win for the Hawks.
Atlanta’s lottery position now reflects both smart asset management and favorable circumstances. By owning the Pelicans’ pick and benefiting from the tiebreaker, the Hawks have placed themselves in a position where multiple outcomes can still lead to success. That is exactly what teams aim for.
As the 2026 NBA Draft Lottery approaches, the Pelicans’ tiebreaker gives Atlanta another reason for optimism. The team has already proven it can compete, and now it has a legitimate chance to add another impactful piece.
In today’s NBA, that combination of present success and future upside is exactly how contenders are built.
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