2020 NBA re-draft – Would the Atlanta Hawks still take Onyeka Okongwu
The Atlanta Hawks took a chance on Onyeka Okongwu when they selected him with the sixth pick of the 2020 NBA draft. It is safe to say that the rookie’s first season did not start the way that anyone wanted it to.
Okongwu missed the first ten games of the season due to his foot injury, he has five DNP-CD’s, and missed one more game through injury. He has not been able to establish a place in the rotation and, thanks to the play of Clint Capela, is not likely to garner huge court time.
So, the question needs to be asked, would the Atlanta Hawks have drafted Okongwu if they knew what they do now about how their season has gone? The answer to that question has to be no, Let’s take a look at who the Hawks could have taken in place of the 6’8″ center.
Atlanta Hawks re-draft potential No. 1) – Deni Avdija.
The ninth pick in the 2020 NBA draft, Deni Avdija has started to play really well for the lowly ranked Washington Wizards. Standing 6’9″ he has the skills and playmaking ability of a guard. He would certainly be a good foil for Trae Young.
He can play either forward spot, which given the injury issues suffered by the Hawks at the moment would be welcome. He is looking at home from behind the 3-point line and would help space the floor for the Hawks.
Atlanta Hawks re-draft potential No. 2) Cole Anthony
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Originally taken with the 15th pick of the 2020 NBA draft, Cole Anthony has already moved into the starting role with the Orlando Magic thanks to the injury to Markelle Fultz. Anthony’s play has also warranted the starting role.
In 25 games, Anthony is averaging 11.0 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game which are good numbers. However, it is not just the numbers, Anthony is looking like a budding playmaker which would be a tremendous asset for a Hawks team when Young is off the court or trapped, forcing him to give up the ball.
Atlanta Hawks re-draft potential No. 3) Immanuel Quickley
A big part of the early success of the New York Knicks is Immanuel Quickley. He is averaging 11.8 points, 2.7 assists, and 2.3 rebounds in a backup role. Imagine this level of production when Young is off the court,
Next. 3 players who have disappointed this season. dark
Quickley has shown the ability to efficiently run a second unit and this is something the Hawks have been missing. He would also have the ability to play alongside Young which would make the Hawks an incredibly dangerous team.