Steve Holman: Hawks Need More Size and a Point Guard After Ugly Exit

Dukes & Bell12mMay 1, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

In this emotional postgame analysis, Dukes & Bell host a candid conversation with longtime Atlanta Hawks play-by-play announcer Steve Holman following the team's devastating 140-89 loss in Game 6 of the playoffs. The episode captures the collective frustration and disappointment of fans and broadcasters alike, with Holman emphasizing the need for a 48-72 hour 'step back' before drawing conclusions. Despite the lopsided defeat, Holman highlights the team's remarkable late-season surge to secure the 6th seed and the growth of young players like Nikhil and C.J. McCollum. The core discussion centers on critical roster deficiencies: a lack of size and a true point guard, with Holman stressing that the modern game has returned to valuing big men and floor generals. He advocates for a 'best player available' approach in the upcoming draft lottery, while also acknowledging the long-term development of the current core. The hosts reflect on the emotional toll of the loss, questioning whether the team lacked heart, but ultimately agree with Holman’s call to look forward with resilience and purpose.

Key Takeaways
1

The Hawks need a true point guard and a dominant big man to compete in today's physical NBA.

2

The team's late-season surge to the 6th seed demonstrates growth, especially among young players.

3

A 48-72 hour 'step back' is essential before making major roster or coaching decisions.

4

The draft lottery (May 10th) offers a top-three pick opportunity, and the best player available should be prioritized.

5

Leadership and heart were missing in Game 6, but the team’s foundation is still worth building on.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
2 min

The Aftermath of a Devastating Loss

I just cannot tell you the passion that was in the building last night of frustration and disappointment of the team not at least showing up.

Highlight
2:00
3 min

Steve Holman’s Perspective: The Need to Step Back

Holman emphasizes the importance of taking 48-72 hours to process the loss before making judgments about players, coaches, or management.

5:00
4 min

Core Roster Deficiencies: Size and Point Guard

You need a point guard, and you need a center. I think that's where we start.

Highlight
9:00
3 min

The Future: Draft, Free Agency, and Long-Term Growth

The hosts and Holman discuss the upcoming draft lottery, the 'best player available' philosophy, and the importance of building around the current core of young players.

12:00
1 min

Looking Forward: Resilience and the Road Ahead

Onward and upward. What's past is past, right? Just look ahead.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
Onward and upward. What's past is past, right? Just look ahead.
Steve Holman11:13
Viral: 90.0
You need a point guard, and you need a center. I think that's where we start.
Steve Holman6:22
Viral: 85.0
I mean, that was horrible right from the start. I mean, we had a 9-5 lead. We had a 9-0 run at the start of the game.
Steve Holman2:00
Viral: 75.0
Speakers

Hosts

AbeCarl

Guest

Steve Holman
Topics Discussed
Hawks Playoff Collapse95%Team Roster Needs90%NBA Trends: Big Men and Point Guards85%Draft Lottery Strategy80%Player Development and Growth75%Broadcasting and Media Perspective70%Leadership and Team Culture65%Postseason Emotional Processing60%
People & Brands

Atlanta Hawks

other

22xMixed

Steve Holman

person

15xPositive

Abe

person

8xNeutral

Carl

person

6xNeutral

New York Knicks

other

6xNeutral

Dukes & Bell

media

5xPositive

Draft Lottery

other

4xNeutral

C.J. McCollum

person

3xPositive

May 10th

other

3xNeutral

Nikhil

person

3xPositive

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