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2018 NBA Draft: 5 Under-the-Radar Options for Atlanta Hawks

ByChris Guest|
CHICAGO, IL - MAY 17: Anfernee Simons #39 talks to the media during the NBA Draft Combine Day 1 at the Quest Multisport Center on May 17, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. 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 Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - MAY 17: Anfernee Simons #39 talks to the media during the NBA Draft Combine Day 1 at the Quest Multisport Center on May 17, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. 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 Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images)
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MUNICH, GERMANY – FEBRUARY 04: Isaac Bonga of Fraport Skyliners drives (Photo by TF-Images/Getty Images)
MUNICH, GERMANY – FEBRUARY 04: Isaac Bonga of Fraport Skyliners drives (Photo by TF-Images/Getty Images)

Isaac Bonga

Currently playing for the Fraport Skyliners in the German Bundesliga Basketball, Isaac Bonga is an 18-year-old forward with a solid frame that projects to be a solid NBA player.

At this point, Bonga is extremely raw, but the flashes he has shown on both offense and defense should provide teams (like the Hawks) with hopes of his continued development.

Though he lacks the bulk of most NBA forwards, his 6-foot-9 frame with a 7-foot wingspan means his length is certainly NBA-ready. He improved his quickness during his most recent season, and used quick hands and good instincts on the defensive end to jump passing lanes and finish with an above-average steal rate and steals per 40 minute numbers.

Bonga projects to be switchable across 4 positions at least (maybe 5 in emergency situations), though, again, he still needs a fair amount of seasoning. Drafting Bonga with the 30th or 34th overall pick and letting him play in Europe for another season or two is an option for the Hawks, especially since they have multiple selections this year.