Atlanta Hawks 2016-17 Player Preview: Dennis Schroder

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Dec 16, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Dennis Schroder (17) celebrates a play in the third quarter of their game against the Philadelphia 76ers at Philips Arena. The Hawks won 127-106. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /

2016-17 Season Projections

Projected 2016-17 per game averages: 15.6 points, 6.3 assists, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.2 steals.

Projected 2016-17 shooting percentages: .425/.343/.810

There is no reason to believe that Dennis Schroder cannot mimic the numbers of Jeff Teague.

Although there might be a period of adjustment, Schroder has everything he needs. He has a new-and-improved pick-and-roll option in Dwight Howard and the three-point outlets of Kyle Korver and Kent Bazemore. Millsap will provide support with his wonderful all-around arsenal and, with better depth, the team is much more dangerous.

Behind him, Schroder has the steady head of Jarret Jack, whose presence should not just be there to mentor the young point guard, but should also alleviate some of the pressure on him. And, without the battling with Teague for minutes, Schroder will have the freedom to play his game. He won’t have to worry about every mistake resulting in him being hooked off the floor and he won’t have to make his game all about one-upping his positional competition.

With that, comes the lift Schroder will have from the front office’s support. That, along with everything else, should allow him to succeed as the starting point guard.

May 2, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Dennis Schroder (17) drives past Cleveland Cavaliers guard Kyrie Irving (2) during the second half in game one of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena. The Cavs won 104-93. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /

So, yeah. Considering all of that support alongside his explosive offensive skill-set, Schroder’s scoring and assists could well rise to those levels. With an increased role, though, do not expect his efficiency to shoot up. He might well improve his shooting numbers from last season but, as he will be taking more shots, those percentages should not explode.

Dennis Schroder’s role will be key for the Hawks. Without him, the Hawks’ offense could well fall apart; that is the risk the organisation took in making him the starter. At the same time, however, this is the next step in his development and that is how Schroder will become something in this league.

It is important not to get carried away with Schroder. He is likely to make improvements to his game and his supporting cast in Atlanta is a very solid one, but temper your expectations. It is highly unlikely that Schroder, despite his many talents, becomes elite this season. Given the extraordinary depth of the point guard position, it is unlikely he will even be an All-Star.

May 4, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Jeff Teague (0), forward Mike Scott (32) and guard Dennis Schroder (17) watch from the bench during the second half against the Cleveland Cavaliers in game two of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena. The Cavs won 123-98. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /

With Dennis Schroder at the point, though, the Hawks should not end up missing Jeff Teague.

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