Atlanta Hawks: 5 players crucial to playoff success

Atlanta Hawks player crucial to playoff success – Bogdan Bogdanovic

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While Trae Young is the most influential player on the Hawks offense, his game has been taken to another level by his combination with Bogdan Bogdanovic. The Serbian sharp-shooter has been incredible since coach Nate McMillan took over.

His ability as the secondary playmaker takes so much pressure off Young so that he can create for himself and others. However, where Bogdanovic is at his best for the franchise is curling around screens, receiving the pass, and making the 3-ball with ease.

It is this movement that creates holes in the opposition’s defense for others to exploit. If Bogdanovic does not receive the pass, then the defense has sagged off someone else in an effort to help. This allows for so many open looks for his teammates.

On top of that, Bogdanovic’s defense has been incredible. He was switched onto Russell Westbrook in the second half of the second game against the Washington Wizards and kept the superstar quiet. He has been doing roles like this for McMillan for months now. His play at both ends of the court will be crucial for the Hawks to make a good run at the postseason.