The Atlanta Hawks appear to be approaching the 2024-25 NBA season as a year to solidify their identity. While the return for Dejounte Murray in the offseason may have been underwhelming to some, there was a clear strategy in place.
Rather than simply acquiring the best available talent, the Hawks focused on building a team with a specific identity. It was evident that they were following a blueprint set by another team with which they are often compared.
The Dallas Mavericks, linked to the Hawks through the Trae Young and Luka Dončić rivalry, laid the foundation for Atlanta’s strategy. By surrounding a dynamic offensive player with 3-and-D specialists, the Mavericks reached the NBA Finals.
Atlanta, led by defensive-minded head coach Quin Snyder, is hoping a similar approach will pay off. While it remains to be seen how far this model will take the Hawks, the team now appears to have a clear direction. The roster, full of young players, aligns well with Snyder’s style.
This season, the Hawks may stay relatively quiet on the trade front, as their focus could be on internal growth. However, if the team’s strategy shows quick results, the Hawks may look to make moves to upgrade their roster.
Here are three players who would make the most sense for Atlanta, ranked by their fit:
Defense will be key for the Hawks this season. While Young’s defense may always be limited due to his size, the rest of the team has the potential to be a solid defensive unit. Players like Jalen Johnson, De’Andre Hunter, and rookie Zaccharie Risacher fit the 3-and-D mold.
Still, the Hawks could benefit from adding another quality 3-and-D wing to their rotation, and Dorian Finney-Smith fits that bill.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Dorian Finney-Smith, Brooklyn Nets, Atlanta Hawks Updates
Though he’s 31 years old, Finney-Smith is one of the better defensive wings on the market. He thrived during his time in Dallas, and a similar role next to Young in Atlanta could yield similar results. He’s a near 40% shooter from beyond the arc and brings defensive versatility, capable of guarding multiple positions.
Derrick Jones Jr. may not offer the offensive upside of Finney-Smith, but his defense is top-notch. Jones was arguably the best defender during Dallas’ run to the NBA Finals last season. Whether it was taking on the toughest assignments or making timely plays, Jones was a crucial part of the Mavericks’ success.
While he lacks a consistent 3-point shot, the Hawks have enough shooting to absorb his offensive limitations. Jones could slot in as a point-of-attack defender, handling the challenging guard matchups that Young struggles with.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Derrick Jones Jr, Los Angeles Clippers, Atlanta Hawks Updates
After a career year in Dallas, Jones is now with the Los Angeles Clippers, but with a rebuild looming for that team, he could become available via trade.
Jerami Grant represents the best of both worlds for the Hawks, providing both offense and defense. During his time with the Denver Nuggets, Grant gained valuable playoff experience, and since then, he has developed into a more complete offensive player. Stops with the Detroit Pistons and Portland Trail Blazers have seen him evolve into a legitimate three-level scorer.
Grant has averaged more than 20 points per game over the last few seasons while shooting above 40% from deep. While Atlanta’s need for 3-and-D wings is clear, Grant offers the added bonus of being a secondary playmaker.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jerami Grant, Portland Trail Blazers, Atlanta Hawks Updates
In lineups without Young, Grant could create his own shot, giving the Hawks a more dynamic offensive attack. His ability to thrive as both a catch-and-shoot player and a ball handler would take pressure off Young and provide the team with more versatility.
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