Atlanta Hawks: Mid-season grades for all the offseason signings
Atlanta Hawks offseason signing grade No.9) Danilo Gallinari
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The Hawks got the best shooter at 6’10” or over in the world in a sign and trade with the OKC Thunder. It only cost the Hawks two second-round picks in the 2025 NBA draft. The Thunder also god a massive trade exception but this was of no interest to the Hawks.
Like so many of the other offseason signees, Gallinari got injured in the early part of the season. He played the first game, missed the next two, and then played three minutes of the Brooklyn Nets game before hurting his ankle. He would then miss the next ten games.
The problem for Gallinari this season is that it appeared that recently fired head coach Lloyd Pierce did not appear to be able to use him effectively in the rotation. He would have 10 or 11 shots in some games and then the next game he would have four. He could not build up any rhythm.
Then came the 38 point explosion where Gallinari hit a Hawks record of ten 3-point shots in the game. He only had 12 attempts. He was also crucial in the comeback against the Orlando Magic which netted them their second win in a row prior to the All-Star break.
Next. Trae Young needs to learn from Damian Lillard. dark
It will be interesting to see how interim coach Nate McMillan uses Gallinari because he has the ability to space the floor and break down opposing defenses as few others can. He is also almost automatic from the line and can take the pressure off Young by keeping the scoreboard moving.
Offseason signing grade: A-