Don’t take the Hawks bottom five finish at face value, because there’s a storm brewing in Atlanta. After a rough 6-23 start to the season, the Hawks forged a strong chemistry between their two cornerstones of the future Trae Young and John Collins.
Young and Collins each averaged over 19 points per game, proving the pair have built a strong offensive chemistry. Young showcased his top tier playmaking ability while Collins displayed a dominance on the boards. Their strong performance led Atlanta to a much more promising 23-30 finish to the 2019 campaign, indicative of the forward momentum the team has established.
Although the Hawks decision to trade down from the third overall pick was a controversial move met with much media criticism, Atlanta must feel reassured about Young living up to (and surpassing) all expectations.
Don’t be mistaken, the Hawks aren’t a two-man circus either. Taurean Prince and rookie Kevin Huerter both shot over 38.5 percent from behind the arc on a combined 10.4 shots per game. DeAndre’ Bembry and Omari Spellman both also filled important holes on the bench.
With a litany of youthful offensive weapons in the arsenal, a strong foundation of veteran mentors, AND another two top ten projected picks coming in this year’s draft, Hawks fans are salivating at the endless possibilities next season could bring.