With COVID-19 bringing the 2019-2020 season to an abrupt end, it is still unclear what to expect when it comes to the season starting back up. Nevertheless, the offseason and the 2020 NBA Draft give the Hawks a lot to think about if they want to make it to the playoffs next season. They need to sign players that can contribute to that goal and match the team’s young roster in order to grow along with them.
Atlanta has the most spending money out of all the NBA teams, sitting at a $49 million in cap space. This gives them an advantage being that they can outbid their rivals on the players they strive to get. Likewise, here are five free agents that the Hawks should target that could strengthen their chances of making the playoffs.
Fred VanVleet
VanVleet currently plays for the Toronto Raptors and is one of the best defensive guards in the league. Being that the Hawks need all the defensive help they can get, VanVleet would be a perfect addition to help bring the team back. He averages 16.8 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 7.6 assists. He’s not only a great defender, but also knows how to find the open man and make shots, making him an overall great prospect. VanVleet has defended some of the top NBA players in the league, has playoff experience, and has recently won a championship. These are all key components that can help turn the team around and better motivate the players around him, especially the young rookie Trae Young. Having a championship influence to play next to can better help Trae reach his full potential as a basketball player and soon win his own championship.
Christian Wood
Christian is a 24 year old, unrestricted free agent with the Detroit Pistons. He was averaging 22.3 and 9.5 rebounds during the season. After the trade of Andre Drummond, Wood was the player keeping his team in games and his numbers jumped. Christian’s NBA journey hasn’t been an easy one for him, but he finally proved his worth and has the chance to fully develop into a future star. Wood makes just about every shot he puts up, averaging 65.4 true shooting percentage. This young talent with promise to continue growing and mastering his skill would be a great addition to the Hawks’ young and upcoming roster.
Jerami Grant
Grant currently plays for the Denver Nuggets as a power forward. One of his greatest skills is his defense, which averages 2.8 combined blocks and steals. It’s no secret that the Hawks need all the defensive help they can get so adding a strong defensive player is a great route for them to go. He also has the offensive skills they need to score them points. Jerami has great potential and could be the missing piece to a team in need of a rebuild.
Moe Harkless
The 27-year old power forward for the New York Knicks is a desirable NBA free agent for many reasons. Harkless has played in 33 playoff games and has had the experience of playing next to a star point guard, making him an experienced player that knows what it takes to get his team into the playoffs. He could help take the pressure off of young defensive players, De’Andre Hunter and Cam Reddish, since he is a great defensive stopper. Though his shooting lacks at times, his offensive skills aside from shooting can give the team what they need to be successful. Overall, Moe would be reasonable for the Hawks to target.
Joe Harris
Harris is a promising shooting guard for the Brooklyn Nets. The 28-year old is one of the most desired shooters in the league averaging 41.8% from the field and 41.7% from the three-point range. He is able to constantly move and make shots at the same time and become open for his teammates giving Atlanta the offensive role they need to improve on. The Hawks will be able to outbid their rivals, and will especially want to for a strong shooter like Joe Harris. He would be a great addition to the team that could potentially help drive them to the playoffs.
The Hawks have their star player, Trae Young, but still need a number of role players to get them to postseason play. These players above could help the team get there, especially in the weak Eastern Conference. The decision of which players to target, and hopefully gain, is crucial for the Hawks to focus on if they want to turn their team around and finally become champions once again.
