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Atlanta Hawks’ Midseason Grades: Len, Jones, Fernando

By Dallin Duffy

ATLANTA, GA - OCTOBER 26: Alex Len #25 of the Atlanta Hawks in action during a game against the Orlando Magic 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: Alex Len #25 of the Atlanta Hawks in action during a game against the Orlando Magic 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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Filling out the report card for the Atlanta Hawks’ trio of centers.

The Atlanta Hawks won their 9th game of their season on Tuesday, pulling into the halfway mark of the season with a 9-32 record. Only the Warriors have more losses.

Like we’ve done in the past with Kevin Huerter, Brandon Goodwin, and John Collins, we’re going to be giving out grades for the 1st half of the season. Up this time is the Hawks’ trio of centers: Alex Len, Damian Jones, Bruno Fernando.

It’s been a interesting year for Atlanta centers, and all three of these have started a handful of games, while some have moved out of the rotation for stints.

Let’s get started on the big men write ups with the veteran Len.

Alex Len:

Len is now halfway through his second season as a Hawk, and his 7th season as a pro. The former 5th overall pick has been a high-volume sixth man for most of his career, and hasn’t changed yet thus far this season.

Actually, Len has taken a bit of a step back this season, averaging 18.7 minutes per game, his lowest since his 2013-2014 rookie campaign. He started the first nine games of the season, but was then relegated to the bench for the younger Damian Jones and Bruno Fernando, both of whom we’ll get to later.

He’s shooting the ball considerably less than he did last year (6.6 FGA, down from 8.4), but his percentage has risen up to 55%, his most since leaving Phoenix. In total, he’s averaging 9.0 points, 5.8 rebounds and 0.8 blocks per contest.

The low rebound total is a bit concerning for the board-needy Hawks, but Len has never really been a glass cleaner. He does rank higher in rebounds per game than the other two centers on this post, but lower than forwards Jabari Parker and team-leader John Collins.

Len has established himself as one of the team’s best defenders, which is much appreciated from one of the worst defensive squad’s in the league. He’s not going to block 2 shots a night, but can bruise his opponents into less-than-ideal shots, even turnovers.

Verdict:

C +. Alex Len has transitioned into a vet who thrives in his role off the bench. He’s the Hawks’ best option as a rim protector, and helps lead an otherwise shaky 2nd team.. C. Atlanta Hawks. ALEX LEN

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