Atlanta, Georgia — Dyson Daniels, the young NBA guard for the Atlanta Hawks, continues to make waves on the court. In a thrilling matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks on March 30, 2025, Daniels recorded five steals, tying him with Chris Paul for the most games with five or more steals this century. This achievement also allowed him to set a new franchise record for steals in a single season, surpassing Mookie Blaylock’s previous mark with a total of 213 steals.
Daniels’ defensive prowess has not gone unnoticed; he leads the league in both steals and deflections this season. His relentless pursuit of the ball has made him one of the most disruptive perimeter defenders in the NBA today. However, he faces tough competition for the Defensive Player of the Year award against experienced players like Draymond Green and Evan Mobley.
Despite earlier setbacks in the week with losses, the Hawks bounced back impressively, defeating the Bucks 145-124. This victory marked their 36th win of the season. Zaccharie Risacher, the potential Rookie of the Year, led the scoring with a career-high 36 points. The Hawks shot 53% from the field and made an impressive 36 assists on 50 baskets with only eight turnovers. Their offensive performance was a collective effort, with Trae Young contributing 19 points and 19 assists, while Dyson Daniels himself posted 22 points, nine rebounds, and six assists.
After the game, Hawks coach Quin Snyder acknowledged Daniels’ impact on and off the court. ‘He’s got great hands and great anticipation,’ Snyder said, referring to Daniels’ ability to disrupt the game. ‘He’s fearless, and you can see that at critical moments.’ Daniels’ work ethic and consistency have been commended by his coaches, showcasing not just his skill, but character as well.
The Hawks are currently in contention for the playoffs, sitting slightly ahead of the Orlando Magic, Chicago Bulls, and Miami Heat for the 7th seed in the Eastern Conference. They are also within four games of the Bucks for the 6th seed after winning the season series. Their next challenge will come when they face the Portland Trail Blazers at home on Tuesday.
As the season progresses, attention will remain focused on Daniels. With 11 games left to play, he is positioning himself not just for individual accolades but also as a crucial player for the Hawks in their playoff pursuit. His current tally of 202 steals not only sets a record for the youngest player to reach this milestone but also places him amongst elite company, including Magic Johnson and Chris Paul. Should he maintain his form, Daniels could challenge John Stockton‘s all-time record of 244 steals.
For now, the Hawks and their fans celebrate a historic night, one that emphasizes the team’s potential and Daniels’ growth as a player. As he continues to make his mark, the NBA community watches closely, anticipating yet another thrilling chapter in his emerging career.
