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Is John Collins the Atlanta Hawks’ Answer at Center?

By Dallin Duffy

ATLANTA, GA - OCTOBER 26: John Collins #20 of the Atlanta Hawks defends against Nikola Vucevic #9 of the Orlando Magic during the second quarter of a game at State Farm Arena on October 26, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. 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. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - OCTOBER 26: John Collins #20 of the Atlanta Hawks defends against Nikola Vucevic #9 of the Orlando Magic during the second quarter of a game at State Farm Arena on October 26, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. 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. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images) /
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Analyzing whether or not John Collins could play center for the Atlanta Hawks.

It’s no longer a question that the Atlanta Hawks need help at the center position. The only question is, who will be that help.

Steven Adams, Dewayne Dedmon and other names on the trade market have been floated, but what if the answer is already on the team?

John Collins has been a power forward in each of his three seasons with Atlanta since being drafted 19th overall in 2017.

Despite playing at the four, Collins led the team in rebounds last season, pulling down 9.8 per game, and is currently leading the Hawks this season with 9.8 as well.

Collins’ springy athleticism makes up for his 6’9 stature on the boards, and always seems to be in the right position for a put back.

Of course, assuming the Hawks can simply slide JC because he’s simply a good rebounder is a bit silly, even if he already is easily their best glass cleaner.

Collins has never been much of a rim protector, or defender in general, important for a NBA center.

His 6’9, thin frame would be an mismatch with most centers starting across from him, but I suppose that’s not too different when he lines up at PF.

To Collins’ credit, he has improved defensively this year, blocking 2.3 shots a contest this season, easily both a career and team high.

Offensively is were Collins would be a fantastic stretch five.

He can score from anywhere on the floor, and he’s always one of the fastest players on the floor, regardless of position.

JC is already a match up problem with slower power forwards, but slide him to the five, and he’d have the speed advantage night in and night out.

He would be able to hold his own on the defensive and rebounding side of things, but he could be even better offensively at the center spot.

Next. Should the Atlanta Hawks Bring Back Dewayne Dedmon?. dark

It’s certainly something to consider as the Hawks continue to assemble their roster of the future.

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