Atlanta Hawks: 3 things we learned from the first preseason game

The Atlanta Hawks faced the Orlando Magic last night in their first preseason game; here are 3 things we learned from the matchup.

The Atlanta Hawks lost to the Orlando Magic last night by a score of 116-112 in their first of four preseason matchups. This was the first look Hawks fans got at their new roster which has a total of nine new players on it. There were a ton of questions to be answered in this matchup, including who the starting five would be at tip-off, how head coach Lloyd Pierce would approach the new roster and the health concerns of some of the players.

The shortened offseason finally came to an end last night and we got a chance to see what the Atlanta Hawks have been cooking up. Here are 3 things that we learned about the Hawks in their first preseason matchup.

De’Andre Hunter looked really, really good

With all of the shiny new toys on the Atlanta Hawks roster this year, it seems as though fans may have forgotten about some of the younger guys that were already on the squad. One of them, in particular, looked really well last night. De’Andre Hunter, in his sophomore debut, got the start for the Hawks and certainly made the most of the opportunity.

In 26 minutes, Hunter went 5 for 10 from the field, including 2 for 5 from three and 6 for 8 from the free-throw line for a total of 18 points. He seemed to have a really good feel for the game, not forcing up much, letting the game come to him which was great to see. He and Trae Young seemed to fit well together which is good news as Hunter’s size will be necessary to help cover for Young’s defensive deficiencies.

He looked confident getting to the rim on several occasions.

If De’Andre Hunter blossoms into the two-way player that the Hawks are hoping he will, this could be a really dangerous team come playoff time.