Preview 2024/25: Atlanta Hawks seek to take a leap forward after receiving the 1st pick in the NBA Draft

Atlanta Hawks enters the 2024/25 season with some skepticism but the potential to be an underrated team in the NBA. Despite many viewing the trade of Dejounte Murray as signaling a rebuild, the team has opted for a more calculated approach in building its roster. Trae Young remains the centerpiece of the team, despite the criticism he often receives, and with Quin Snyder at the helm — one of the most respected coaches in the league — the Hawks could surprise this season.

Development under Quin Snyder
Snyder has already shown improvement in the team, and in his second full season as head coach, he is expected to continue developing the young talent on the roster. Players like Jalen Johnson and Onyeka Okongwu will have more prominent roles, while the additions of Zaccharie Risacher, with the first draft selection, and Dyson Daniels will bring versatility and capability on both ends of the court. Okongwu might even assume a starting role with Clint Capela in the final year of his contract, indicating a potential shift towards a younger core.

Challenges in the Eastern Conference
Although the Hawks boast talent and leadership, the Eastern Conference is filled with strong teams, making their path to the playoffs challenging. While Snyder has implemented a top-tier offense in the league, the competition could limit the team's aspirations to a play-in tournament spot. The development of young players will be crucial for Atlanta's long-term success, but in the short term, reaching the play-in seems like the most realistic goal.

Strengths
The team possesses youthful energy and a potent offense, which has remained in the Top 5 under Snyder's direction. Strategic salary cap management has allowed the integration of new talents like Risacher and Daniels, offering the opportunity to build good chemistry around Trae Young in pursuit of playoff contention.

Weaknesses
The departure of key players like Dejounte Murray has diminished the team's depth and experience. Additionally, reliance on less proven youngsters could lead to inconsistency, especially if key players like De'Andre Hunter or Bogdan Bogdanovic suffer injuries, forcing the less experienced ones to take on significant roles.

Projections
Experts project the Hawks to finish third in the Southeast Division and 11th in the Eastern Conference, with an estimated 35.5 regular-season victories.

Ins and Outs of the Squad

• Ins: Zaccharie Risacher (JL Bourg), Dyson Daniels (New Orleans), Larry Nance Jr. (New Orleans), David Roddy (Phoenix), Cody Zeller (New Orleans), Keaton Wallace (Atlanta)
• Outs: Dejounte Murray (New Orleans), Saddiq Bey (Washington), AJ Griffin (trade), Bruno Fernando (Toronto), Dylan Windler (Perth Wildcats), Trent Forrest (Baskonia)

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