Tank Watch 2018: The Race For The Top Pick

PHOENIX, AZ - JANUARY 2: Generic image of basketball shot during game between Atlanta Hawks and Phoenix Suns on January 2, 2018 at Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images)
PHOENIX, AZ - JANUARY 2: Generic image of basketball shot during game between Atlanta Hawks and Phoenix Suns on January 2, 2018 at Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images)
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Atlanta Hawks: Pick 1-3

NEW YORK, NY – FEBRUARY 4: Kent Bazemore
NEW YORK, NY – FEBRUARY 4: Kent Bazemore

In year one of rebuilding, Mike Budenholzer’s squad has shown fight and competitiveness that most bottom-feeding teams don’t. Despite this, the Hawks are headed to a top pick for the first time since 2007 when they selected Al Horford with the third overall pick.

According to Tankathon.com, Atlanta has the third-hardest remaining strength of schedule, behind only San Antonio and Washington. With the hardest schedule of any team contending for the top pick, the Hawks are the least likely of the bunch to pull away with more wins in the second half.

Fans’ dreams of Luka Doncic, Marvin Bagley III or DeAndre Ayton are looking more and more likely to come to true.