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Which Atlanta Hawk Has the Most to Prove?

By Collin Huguley

Apr 9, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks head coach Mike Budenholzer calls a play in the second quarter of their game against the Boston Celtics at Philips Arena. The Hawks won 118-107. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 9, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks head coach Mike Budenholzer calls a play in the second quarter of their game against the Boston Celtics at Philips Arena. The Hawks won 118-107. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 1, 2016; Norman, OK, USA; Baylor Bears forward Taurean Prince (21) shoots the ball over Oklahoma Sooners guard Isaiah Cousins (11) during the first halt at Lloyd Noble Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 1, 2016; Norman, OK, USA; Baylor Bears forward Taurean Prince (21) shoots the ball over Oklahoma Sooners guard Isaiah Cousins (11) during the first halt at Lloyd Noble Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Taurean Prince

The Atlanta Hawks traded longtime point guard, Jeff Teague for a lottery pick this off-season. The team had not had a pick that high in the draft since they took Al Horford at No. 3 overall in 2007.

The team shocked many when they took Baylor forward, Taurean Prince with that selection. Prince was widely labeled as a solid target for the Hawks’ second selection at No. 21 overall, but it felt like a reach to many at No. 12.

Those critics are the ones that will make Prince one of the players with the most to prove on the Atlanta roster.

Whether you think Prince was a reach or not, his fit with the Hawks is without question. The team missed the physicality and grit of DeMarre Carroll at the small forward position and Prince will, at the very least, bring that aspect back. He is also a terrific athlete and a ruthless finisher at the rim, giving him more upside on the offensive end that Carroll has.

The questions about adjusting to NBA defense are credible, as he played in an odd zone scheme at Baylor. But the measures and athleticism should allow him to catch on quickly and thrive in doing so.

Prince is a terrific fit for the Hawks, but will certainly have to live up to his draft slot. There were many other high-upside names that excited fans, but the Hawks played ti safe with Prince. While he appears to be set up for success, he will be under pressure from fans to deliver almost immediately.

Next: A Proven Veteran

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