7. Dennis Schroder, PG
Dennis Schröder drives to the basket. (Scott Cunningham/NBAE/Getty Images)
Dennis Schroder is still a work in progress. Like most NBA rookies, the German point guard has been prone to spectacular plays and frustrating mistakes this preseason. Regardless, Schroder will have a role on the Hawks’ team this season. He will be Jeff Teague’s backup. New Hawks coach Mike Budenholzer seems committed to giving Schroder minutes, allowing him to develop under fire.
Schroder has proven to be an aggressive defender, forcing his man to work for points. In the preseason game against Memphis at Philips Arena, Dennis guarded a red hot Jerryd Bayless, who finished the game with 22 points. Schroder gave up some points to Bayless, but Bayless had to work for everything he got. Schroder was able to keep up with Bayless through screens, and every shot Bayless put up Schorder contested.
Offensively Dennis has a good handle with the ball and is not afraid to attack the basket. He has, however, run into issues with turnovers. On several occasions this preseason he has driven to the basket and almost blindly tried to kick the ball out to a teammate on the wing. The passing lanes were usually clogged thought and the Hawks turned the ball over.
Schroder’s turnovers will be something Hawks fans will have to accept this season. He will have some growing pains as this season progresses. But, it will all be worth it for more moments like this one:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2Cy7n2hdM0