1. Denzel Valentine
The AP National Player of the Year, Michigan State’s Denzel Valentine has one of the most versatile skill sets in this year’s NBA Draft. With very few glaring weaknesses, Valentine is a player that has tools that could be highlighted very well on the wing in Atlanta.
I am officially the conductor on the Denzel Valentine Hype Train. His fit with the Hawks is just too perfect. An outstanding 3-point shooter, Valentine shot 44% from beyond the arc this past year and that was only the beginning of his offensive masterclass. Valentine averaged 7.8 assists per game to go along with his 19.2 points, displaying an elite ability to set up teammates while also finding his own shot. Valentine also possesses great rebounding ability for a wing player, averaging 7.5 boards per game as a senior. These offensive tools blend perfectly with the Hawks’ emphasis on ball movement and perimeter shooting, while he could also provide a boost in rebounding to a team that sorely needs it.
Athleticism is one of the scouts’ biggest concerns about Valentine’s game. His lack of explosiveness makes scouts doubt his ability to defend and attack the basket. But, his great length (6-11 wingspan) allow him to do a good job of keeping offensive players in front of him. His crafty ball handling also allows him to drive well enough, which is when he really thrives in finding open teammates. But, now there are concerns about Valentine’s knee that was injured during his college career. He is one of multiple players that have medical red flags, but with the great Hawks’ training staff and Valentine being a terrific basketball fit, it is worth that risk. The injury concerns also might allow Valentine to fall to 21, when he otherwise would not.
As you can tell, I don’t think the Hawks can do much better in this draft than Valentine. His all-around offensive firepower combined with the Hawks’ system is, simply, mouth-watering. His tools would make him a solid starter/role-player on another team, but he has All-Star potential with Atlanta. Elite perimeter shooting paired with elite passing and crafty handling reminds of another great Hawks from a few years ago. Valentine has the potential to be a top option for the Hawks.
Comparison: Joe Johnson