Atlanta Hawks: 5 Team Impressions After 15 Games

John Collins is Sorely Missed

Speaking of John Collins, the Atlanta Hawks have sorely missed his stunning leaping ability and amazing natural athleticism on the court on both ends of the floor. Often, the Hawks are simply get out-athleticized by taller, stronger and faster players due to the team’s lack of polished athletes.

With Collins back (which might happen tonight against the Pacers) that athleticism deficit will be almost negated by the return of Collins, who is one of the most high-flying dunkers in the league already.

Collins is not just a one-trick pony, however, as he employs that athleticism in practical ways on the court – particularly with his rebounding and help defense.

Beyond that, having another lob target for Trae Young, as well as a gifted finisher around the basket to help the Hawks finish plays will benefit the offense in myriad ways – no matter who’s manning the point.

According to Cleaning the Glass, the Hawks are 27th in offensive rebound rate on offense at 22.2 percent and 26th in offensive rebound rate on defense at 28.6 percent (meaning they only get 22.2 percent of their misses as a team and allow the opposing team to nab 28.6 percent of their misses — not a good mix). That lack of tenacity on the glass is something that the return of Collins will immediately alleviate. Let’s hope he returns to the floor against the Pacers against Myles Turner, Domantas Sabonis and Kyle O’Quinn.

See you soon, John!