Atlanta Hawks: Mock Draft at the Halfway Point of 2018-19 Season

#46. Darius Bazley (via Lakers)

Similar to Shittu, one might be asking “why is an 18-year-old five-star recruit all the way down at #46 for the Atlanta Hawks?” It’s all about the context.

Bazley had originally agreed to attend Ohio State, then Syracuse, but instead opted to forego a college career and play in the NBA’s G-League, which would be a first for a high-profile young athlete.

However, after some sound advice from people in Bazley’s camp, he reneged on that plan and instead is waiting out this season to prepare for the draft. Though his draft stock might’ve taken a hit, this was a good decision – and one that might be beneficial for the Atlanta Hawks.

Playing in the G-League is no joke, as the players there are veterans of the NBA that are trying to make their way back, overseas vets or other disgruntled players that are hungry to make their name in the league. If an inexperienced high school athlete were to make his way there, he would likely look a newborn fawn in comparison to the grizzled, rugged vets that would aim to clobber him on a daily basis.

Also, Bazley would probably not receive the same zealous coverage that NBA rookies receive in their first season – nor the same benefit of the doubt.

With that being said, if Bazley is available with the #46 pick, the Hawks should not hesitate to make a high-upside, big-money play in the late second round. As a lanky wing with feathery shooting touch, Bazley would likely fit the modern offensive system that Hawks coach Lloyd Pierce is trying to create in Atlanta.

With multiple picks available in the second round for the Hawks (and more likely incoming), why not take a chance on Bazley?