4. Atlanta Hawks – Deni Avdija, F, Israel
I predict that the Atlanta Hawks will make a big jump in the Eastern Conference in 2020-21. Even though much of that is due to Trae Young‘s continued development, this is a team that is loaded with young talent on their roster. From Young to John Collins to (now Clint Capela), the Hawks are primed for improvement.
Adding a prospect like Deni Avdija will only fuel that thought. In a league that is constantly looking for the next Luka Doncic, Avdija will likely be taken in the top 5 of the 2020 NBA Draft as the hype around him continues to grow.
I don’t think anyone believes Avdija is going to have the type of immediate impact that Doncic had during his rookie season in Dallas last season, but there is plenty to like about Avdija. He has great size, is a proven playmaker and can play all over the floor.
I have little doubt that the potential is present in Avdija. Question is, which NBA team in the top 5 is going to go all-in on a potential project?