Atlanta Hawks
Many people thought the Atlanta Hawks would make a run for the last playoff spots in the East last year, but it didn’t happen. The Hawks would finish with the second-worst record in the East at 20-47. While Trae Young would go on to put up superstar numbers, averaging 29.6 points, 9.3 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game while shooting 44 percent from the field and 36 percent from the 3-point line.
This season the lone superstar will have a lot of help. The Atlanta Hawks added floor general and 2-time NBA champion Rajon Rondo, who at times will be able to play with Trae on the floor if they chose to go to a small lineup. Rondo will also be a good mentor for Young to learn from. Kris Dunn who is known for his defense will be able to make up for Young’s defensive deficiencies. Danilo Gallinari, the versatile forward who Knick’s fans are still upset got traded away, will help the Hawks with floor spacing and his ability to be a do it all player.
The most impressive signing the Hawks made was getting sharpshooter Bogdan Bogdanovic, who before played for the Kings. The most impressive thing about all these moves the Hawks made was the fact they were able to do all this without getting rid of their young core of Kevin Huerter, De’Andre Hunter, Cam Reddish, and John Collins.
Clint Capela, who came to Atlanta in a trade last season, is still on the team and will be a great inside presence next season. With all these moves this makes the Atlanta Hawks one of the most intriguing and deepest teams in the East.
Grade: A