Atlanta Hawks: 5 Observations From Hawks-Spurs

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Oct 14, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) drives against Atlanta Hawks guard Kent Bazemore (24) in the first quarter of their game at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

Kawhi Leonard looks AWESOME

Yes, this isn’t an observation about the Hawks, but Kawhi Leonard is going to be an absolute monster this season. We already knew he was the best defender in the NBA, he won the Defensive Player of the Year last season, but this is the season the offensive beast gets let out of its cage.

Last night Leonard finished his evening with 20 points and 8 rebounds, in only 23 minutes. It’s clear that Gregg Popovich is more willing to let Leonard isolate when he feels like he has a match-up advantage. Last night he was used in an assortment of ways. He was creating and scoring in pick and roll sets, shooting threes off of screens and attacking the basket relentlessly. He went 7-for-8 from the free-throw line and Hawks defenders could not stay in front of him without fouling. He did whatever he wanted and the Western Conference should be terrified.

The Hawks should be happy they only have to play San Antonio Spurs twice in the regular season and would only see them in the playoffs in the NBA Finals. With Leonard the key is always staying healthy. He’s never played more than 66 games in a season and last season he played only 64 games. With a full season of play he could compete for an MVP award. He’s that good.

The addition of LaMarcus Aldridge may have made them title contenders, the unleashing of Kawhi Leonard may make them champions.

Next: Al Horford: A Hawk For Life

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