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Atlanta Hawks NBA Draft Big Board 1.0 – Player Comps For 30 Players

By Dallin Duffy

SOUTH BEND, IN - MARCH 04: Devin Vassell #24 of the Florida State Seminoles is seen during the game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Purcell Pavilion on March 4, 2020 in South Bend, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
SOUTH BEND, IN - MARCH 04: Devin Vassell #24 of the Florida State Seminoles is seen during the game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Purcell Pavilion on March 4, 2020 in South Bend, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /
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Atlanta Hawks
COLLEGE PARK, MARYLAND – FEBRUARY 29: Jalen Smith #25 of the Maryland Terrapins celebrates after scoring against the Michigan State Spartans at Xfinity Center on February 29, 2020 in College Park, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /

Maryland. Jalen Smith. player. 439. Scouting Report. PF. 28. Pick Analysis

Measurables:

Position: Power forward

Height: 6’10

Weight: 225

Wingspan: 7’1

Overview:

The first of a few defensive-minded forwards who are likely to have their names called right before the second round begins. Jalen Smith is a pro-ready, high-IQ four lacking depth to his game. He’s good at what he does, but does he do enough?

NBA Outlook:

He flashes old school flair on both ends, featuring a bag of tricks in the post and a physical, smart brand on interior defense. His outside shooting improved tremendously from his freshman to sophomore seasons but is still far from consistent.

Player Comparison:

A modern-day Serge Ibaka is often used as a comparison, and the two do show similarities on both ends. I also see a bit of Nerlens Noel in Smith minus Noels’ lack of perimeter shooting.

Fit With the Atlanta Hawks:

The Hawks have a full frontcourt but Smith’s inside-out defense is something any team would make room for. John Collins is still looking for a long-term backup, and Smith can be that, but there will be better options in both the draft and free agency.