Atlanta Hawks GM Travis Schlenk commented yesterday on Dennis Schroder’s arrest, although fans should still be weary of the implications thereof.
We all know the story; Atlanta Hawks point guard Dennis Schroder was charged with misdemeanor battery on Sep. 29th and the investigation is still under way. But that’s not where it ends for the face of the Hawks franchise, as Travis Schlenk also addressed the situation yesterday.
The following excerpt is from ESPN, detailing what Schlenk had to say on the topic.
"Schlenk says preliminary findings show Schroder was involved in an “unacceptable” physical altercation which “will not be tolerated by the Hawks organization.” He says Schroder faces discipline “at the appropriate time once the matter has been more fully developed through the law enforcement process and otherwise. Dennis has accepted responsibility for his actions,” the statement read. “He looks forward to learning from this incident and focusing on the season.”"
Although the vernacular did not seem too harsh on the German starlet, there was an air of authority in Schlenk’s tone. And as a Hawks fan, I would be worried about the consequences. As of now Schroder is still a major part of the team’s plans, but will that last the test of time?
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Schroder seems to have accepted the implications of his actions and is ready to move forward. But what if it happens again? That is the million-dollar question. Schroder is an absolutely vital piece to Schlenk’s process, and that is putting it lightly.
It was clear that Schlenk does not tolerate this kind of behavior and any more could lead to irreparable damage to the organization. Hawks fans may hate to hear it, but Schroder might be the subject of some trade talks should more instances like this occur.
And that’s not where it ends either. Miles Plumlee was also cited on a marijuana charge after being arrested for misdemeanor marijuana possession in August. It’s headlines like this that pose a threat to what Schlenk and the rest of the organization are trying to build.
This transition period is a massively delicate time and even the smallest infractions could set the franchise back by years. Taking into account the recent NBA Draft reform, and soon the Hawks may find themselves in a state of limbo where even tanking won’t save them.
So, what has to happen? Atlanta prides itself on its sports culture, be it the Hawks, the Dream, the Falcons, or Atlanta United. Hawks players themselves need to understand that they aren’t just representing themselves, they are representing an entire city. Nearly half a million people who are True to Atlanta.
This “unacceptable” behavior has to be just that, and the players need to understand that night in and night out. Hawks fans are passionate about their team and want to see them do great things, not make headlines for all the wrong reasons.
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As of now it is early to draw too many conclusions, but I and the rest of the Atlanta faithful will hope that this is the last we hear of unflattering headlines. We want to see our team strive to succeed on the court and be role models for the community off the court.