3 bold predictions for the Atlanta Hawks for the end of the season

Atlanta Hawks bold prediction No. 3) Clint Capela will be the Defensive Player of the Year.

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Clint Capela has changed the nature of the way that other teams attack the Hawks on offense. He is patrolling the paint like he paid for it and is challenging every shot which comes his way. As a result, he is third in the NBA for blocks per game.

On top of that, Capela is leading the NBA in rebounds per game. The old adage goes that the defensive possession is not over until the defensive rebound is secured. Well, Capela is snaring 9.4 defensive rebounds per game.

However, it is not just the numbers that quantify Capela’s impact on defense. He has helped the Hawks perimeter defense as the defenders at the 3-point line can guard their opponent tighter on the perimeter knowing that they have such a tremendous shot blocker behind them.

Capela has been historically good this season, even collecting a triple-double with 10 blocks one night. If the Hawks can make it to the playoffs, and Capela continues to defend at such a high level, he will have to be in the conversation for Defensive Player of the Year. In this scribes opinion, he should win the award.