24. Atlanta Hawks: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, PG, Kentucky
Big Board Rank: 20
Atlanta addresses a big need drafting Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Much like the Wizards the Hawks will be in the market for a backup point guard. Malcom Delaney isn’t bad, but he’s more of an off-ball guard.
Shai would give the Hawks an upgrade from Delaney in almost every possible way. He’s a long armed, defender, with quick hands. He’s not overly fast so he relies on a change of speeds and pace to get to the rim. Not totally sold if him getting into the lane translates without elite speed.
If he can’t get into the lane effectively, Shai needs to become a better shooter.
However, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander fits in nicely in Budenholzer’s system. He should be able to free him up with ball screens, dribble handoffs, etc. Minimizing the amount of space, he needs to create on his own.