The Golden Hawks executed a major transaction prior to the start of the new season, exchanging unprotected first-round selections in 2025 and 2027, a first-round pick swap in 2026, and the 2023 shielded first-round pick from Charlotte in order to secure the services of All-Star point guard Dejounte Murray from the Spurs. After a strong start to the season, winning seven of their first 10 games, the team has since faltered with a 6-10 record, now standing at .500 (13-13).
A secondary deal, although less publicized, was still noteworthy as they offloaded Kevin Huerter‘s contract to slip under the luxury tax, despite his pivotal role as a floor-spacing and ball-moving contributor for Atlanta. The primary beneficiary of the trade, Justin Holiday, has failed to make a significant impact, whereas Huerter is excelling this season with the Kings.
In his recent “10 Things” article on ESPN (Insider access), Zach Lowe highlighted the ongoing adjustment period between Murray and star point guard Trae Young. Initially showing promising signs of synergy, Young’s movement off the ball has regressed, leading to speculation of underlying issues within the Hawks team dynamic. Lowe suggests that Atlanta might be on the brink of instability this season.
As detailed by John Hollinger from The Athletic, while the Hawks’ record aligns closely with external projections, there is a growing sense of unease. Factors contributing to this sentiment include Young’s rumored clash with head coach Nate McMillan and concerning shooting statistics (ranking 29th in three-point attempts and percentage).
Hollinger emphasizes that Young’s subpar performance this season is a significant source of concern, despite impressive stats of 27.5 points and 9.5 assists per game. Until his shooting percentages improve, the league will closely monitor how the Hawks navigate this situation and potential trade deadline moves.
Heading into their recent back-and-forth defeat against Brooklyn, the Hawks find themselves ranked 21st in offensive output, a notable decline from their second-place ranking in the previous season. Although their defense has shown improvement, rising from 26th to 12th, the team holds a negative net rating (-1.0) despite maintaining a .500 record.
With Murray sidelined due to a sprained ankle, and starting forwards De’Andre Hunter and John Collins still recovering from injuries, the onus falls on McMillan and Young to maintain stability within the team, according to insights from Sam Amick of The Athletic.
Amick commends Murray’s leadership during their recent victory over Denver, where he stepped up in the absence of Young and the two forwards with an impressive performance. Notably, Amick argues that Murray’s impact this season has been more significant than Young’s, reflecting on their respective net ratings.
The anticipated return of Bogdan Bogdanovic should provide a boost to the team’s shooting efficiency and alleviate pressure on Young. However, concerns persist regarding the team’s depth, particularly at the guard and forward positions.
While young wing AJ Griffin has shown promise, relying on a rookie as a key rotation player raises some apprehensions for a team with championship aspirations. Forward Jalen Johnson, last year’s first-round pick, has shown signs of inexperience during extended playing time.
We are eager to hear your thoughts. Are you apprehensive about the current state of the Hawks? Do you sense a discord within the team, echoing the sentiments of Lowe and Hollinger? Or do you believe that time and health are the missing ingredients for success? In your view, does the current roster possess the necessary elements to contend for a championship? If changes are warranted, what adjustments do you feel should be made?
Share your insights in the comment section regarding the Hawks and their prospects for the remainder of the season.
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