The Atlanta Hawks had a nice season last year. They finished with a 29-53 record which was good for 12th in the East. This was a slight increase from the year before as strides where being made. But the record does not do the team justice, the growth the team made has much more of an impact for this year. Subsequently, they may not be ready for a title run yet, but are the Atlanta Hawks on the rise?
Atlanta Hawks Weapons
Just in one year of NBA action Trae Young made an impression on the city of Atlanta and the NBA. The runner up to the rookie of the year had an average to below-average start to the season. But after feeling his way around the league he took off and has not looked back. Young averaged 19 points and 8 assists, shot 42 percent shooting from the field and 32 percent from 3-point range. He had control of his team and what he can do in the future is all in his hands. But of course, he can not do it on his own.
The Hawks have assembled an interesting roster this year. They signed longtime NBA star Vince Cater going into his 22nd year. Carter is a really good pick up for many reasons. He is a leader for one, he can help this young team learn what it takes to be in the NBA. He can still play and no one has more time in this league. Haws also pick up a guy in Jabari Parker that has experience and can play a nice role for them. He has the talent to become a great player and this may be the place where he shines.
Atlanta has a group of rookies that they hope will be around for a long time. Cam Reddish, Charlie Brown and Bruno Fernando. Each should get their time on the floor as they hope all three will pay off this season. Another acquisition made was Evan Turner, he will fill a nice role coming off the bench with firepower.
But one of the most important pieces to go with Young is John Collins. In his second year, he finished with an average of 19 points and 9.7 rebounds. Seemingly a double-double guy, a guy you can count on for boards and give you good point production to pair with Young. They are a duo worth watching.
Hawks Real Expectations
Does anyone expect the Hawks to win a championship this year? No, but the real expectation is to get much better from a year ago. They have done just that, they are a better team from the starters to the bench. A run at a playoff spot should be what the team and the fans expect. As with any team that has added so many parts, it will be how well they jell together and maybe an addition somewhere before the trade deadline. This is a team that is in a building faze but that does not have to mean you won’t hit gold.
Atlanta has one of the toughest schedules in the NBA during the first half of season which will not make it easier for them. They will have to come together quickly if they want to make the playoffs. Let’s be honest that is a big hill. Teams like Washington, Miami and Detroit have added pieces and will be making a strong run at the playoffs as well. But if last season was any indication It will be a fun team to watch as the Atlanta Hawks are on the rise.
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