Hawks Waive Bezhanishvili Ahead of Opener
By Chase Wade · Sharper Points AI Desk · Edited by Jordan HawkesPublished On October 15, 2026, the Atlanta Hawks executed a single verified transaction by waiving forward Giorgi Bezhanishvili. This roster move leaves Atlanta streamlining its frontcourt options ahead of the upcoming schedule, which starts with an October 21 matchup against the Orlando Magic. Evaluating this move against the team's underlying statistical profile provides a concrete picture of where the organization stands entering the season.
The Verified Transaction
The specific move reported by the league log on October 15, 2026, involves one player:
- Player: Giorgi Bezhanishvili (Forward)
- Transaction Kind: Waiver
- Action: Waived by the Atlanta Hawks
No accompanying trade assets, contract buyouts, cap figures, or secondary roster additions were reported in the transaction record for this date.
Statistical Analysis: Recent Form Baseline
Evaluating this roster adjustment requires establishing Atlanta's baseline performance using their previous 10-game sample from April 6, 2026, to April 30, 2026. Across that window, the Hawks posted a 3-7 record while experiencing notable defensive liabilities.
| Metric | 10-Game Baseline Value |
|---|---|
| Record | 3-7 |
| Average Points Scored | 106.4 |
| Average Points Allowed | 118.2 |
| Offensive Rating | 108.4 |
| Defensive Rating | 120.5 |
| Effective Field Goal % | 51.8% |
| Three-Point % | 33.7% |
| Turnovers Per Game | 14.6 |
Analysis: The numbers reflect a stark minus-11.8 scoring differential across the 10-game period. The imbalance stems largely from defense, where Atlanta yielded an average defensive rating of 120.5 and allowed 118.2 points per contest. Offensively, the team generated an average offensive rating of 108.4, weighed down by a 33.7% three-point percentage and 14.6 turnovers per game.
Upcoming Schedule and Market Context
Looking ahead, Atlanta visits the Orlando Magic on October 21, 2026, at 23:00 UTC. The initial market baseline for this contest frames expectations for both teams:
- Spread: Atlanta Hawks +2.5 (Orlando Magic -2.5)
- Moneyline: Atlanta Hawks +112 (Orlando Magic -139)
- Game Total: 233.5
Analysis: As a +112 moneyline underdog entering Orlando with a +2.5 spread, the market position aligns with Atlanta's recent 3-7 trajectory. Waiving Giorgi Bezhanishvili reduces forward depth right before opening night. Without extrapolating unstated front-office motives or contract details, the raw performance metrics show a club attempting to refine its roster after giving up 118.2 points per game down the stretch.
Sources
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