The Atlanta Hawks were able to end up with the No. 8 pick in this year's draft after acquiring the New Orleans Pelicans' pick in last year's draft. In what is supposed to be a deep draft class, the Hawks are in a perfect position to select an impact player to add to their young core; it's just uncertain what they decide to do.
There are several guards that could be there for the taking at No. 8, but other teams in front of them may snatch them before they're on the clock. In the event that the Hawks' options are gone, Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints says, don't rule out the Hawks trading back.
“Keep an eye on the Hawks fielding calls for this pick, depending on what guards go at No. 6 and No. 7 before them, as Atlanta also has clear needs in their frontcourt. It is possible GM Onsi Saleh could once again look to trade down slightly, like he did last year with the New Orleans Pelicans, to land a key big like Aday Mara or Morez Johnson Jr,” Siegel wrote.
The Hawks showed throughout the season and playoffs that they needed to fill out their center depth, and it wouldn't be a surprise if they addressed it in the draft.
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Mara seems to be the top option, and there's a chance he could go in the lottery. If the Hawks feel like they could slide back a few slots to gain future assets while also getting the player they want, it's a win-win.
At the same time, getting another shot creator wouldn't hurt the Hawks, and staying at No. 8 to pick one of the remaining guards shouldn't be out of the question.
There is still a lot of time between now and the draft, and a lot can happen that could change the landscape.
The Atlanta Hawks were able to end up with the No. 8 pick in this year's draft after acquiring the New Orleans Pelicans' pick in last year's draft. In what is supposed to be a deep draft class, the Hawks are in a perfect position to select an impact player to add to their young core; it's just uncertain what they decide to do.