Atlanta Hawks: Goals for Omari Spellman in 2018-19

Almost three months ago, the Atlanta Hawks selected Omari Spellman with the 30th pick in the NBA Draft. Atlanta Hawks fans may not have agreed with the selection of Spellman, but this move could turn out to be a blessing in disguise.

During the 2018 NBA draft, Hawks general manager Travis Schlenk focused on adding three-point shooting, versatility and playmaking to the roster.

Spellman will be able to contribute to the Hawks on both sides of the floor if given the chance. The 6-foot-9 forward’s game is similar to Draymond Green. In comparison to Green, the Hawks new forward has the ability to score on all three levels of the floor and can also play defense.

The addition of Spellman allows Atlanta to place him at power forward or center in order to run a small ball lineup. At the end of the Villanova product’s collegiate career, he averaged 10.9 points, 8 rebounds and 1.5 blocks while shooting 43 percent from three.

This summer, the former Wildcat played in the Utah and Las Vegas Summer League, and he played well in both leagues. Spellman played three games in the Utah Summer League and averaged 10 points, 7.7 rebounds and 1.7 assists.

Spellman would continue to produce in the Las Vegas Summer League. The Ohio native played five games and averaged 10.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, 2.0 assists while shooting 37 percent from the floor.

Hawks head coach Lloyd Pierce will be excited to have Spellman on his roster. Drafting Spellman will pay off in the long run due to his size, basketball IQ and skill. However, the 2018 Big East Rookie of the Year needs to accomplish two goals in order to capitalize on his rookie year.