The 1989–90 NBA season was the Hawks' 41st season in the National Basketball Association, and 22nd season in Atlanta. Injuries would hamper the Hawks again as Doc Rivers played just 48 games due to a herniated disk. Despite the injuries, they went on a 7-game winning streak in December with a 13–6 record. However, in January they lost six consecutive games falling below .500, and endangering their playoff chances. Midway through the season, the team traded Antoine Carr to the Sacramento Kings for Kenny Smith. The Hawks would close out the season on a strong note winning ten of their final 15 games finishing sixth in the Central Division with a 41–41 record. However, they ended up one game short of the playoffs. Dominique Wilkins led them in scoring with 26.7 points per game, and was selected for the 1990 NBA All-Star Game. Following the season, Smith was traded to the Houston Rockets, and head coach Mike Fratello was fired.