The 1988–89 NBA season was the Hawks' 40th season in the NBA and 21st season in Atlanta. After falling into the second round of the playoffs for three straight seasons, the Hawks signed free agent and All-Star forward Moses Malone, and acquired Reggie Theus from the Sacramento Kings during the off-season. However, Kevin Willis was out with a broken foot suffered during the preseason, and was later on suspended indefinitely for missing functions and rehabilitation therapy. The Hawks held a 28–19 record at the All-Star break, posted a nine-game winning streak in April, and reached 50 wins for the fourth consecutive season, finishing third in the Central Division with a 52–30 record.