Atlanta Hawks: Jared Butler news should solidify draft strategy

The Atlanta Hawks and the rest of the basketball world got a bit of good news from Shams Charania of The Athletic on Saturday. Jared Butler, the former Baylor point guard and an option with the 20th-overall pick in the NBA Draft, received medical clearance after being referred to a Fitness-to-Play Panel by the NBA for a heart issue.

With his biggest (really the biggest) question now answered, Butler should be squarely in the Hawks sights. More than that he should be a priority.

He’s already made our list of prospects to target but his fit and value were always the best if he indeed checked out healthy. Now that he has, Atlanta needs to make sure they go this route in the draft if he falls to them.

The Atlanta Hawks ideal draft prospect, Jared Butler, got great news on Saturday regarding his medical issue

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There are always concerns with expecting any rookie to come in and contribute right away. But Butler isn’t the typical rookie.

His age and experience — the 20-year-old spent three years in college and is coming off of a National Championship — make him better equipped than most to step in and contribute right off the bat.

He also wouldn’t have to “run” the second unit with Kevin Huerter showing his chops as a playmaker this postseason.

Cam Reddish also has some ability as a secondary playmaker.

The bigger benefit might be that they don’t have to reach for what they believe is the “best player available” which isn’t a bad strategy but carries more risk at the point in the draft where the Hawks will pick.

I am fully healthy and cleared to play in the NBA! Out of an abundance of care, the NBA is incredibly thorough in vetting the health of every player during the pre-Draft process and throughout our careers. I am forever grateful that their comprehensive and strict health analysis
— Jared Butler (@J_Hooper11) July 17, 2021

There’s a strong possibility Butler will be that player now. And his (potential) selection pushes their second greatest need to the forefront in the second round.

Atlanta brass has made it known they will be looking for a big body to bang down low.

There are several players in the draft they’ve been connected to but none warrant a selection in the first round for what the Hawks need which is a suitable backup for Clint Capela. Onyeka Okongwu had a solid showing in the playoffs as a rookie. So much so that General Manager Travis Schlenk said Okongwu improved more in one postseason than any big he’d been around.

That’s lofty praise given Schlenk’s background. Still, Oknongwu stands at just 6-foot-8 meaning his best position long-term is at power forward. That makes him a better option as John Collins’ backup, replacement, or trade fodder. But center would seem to be a stretch.

Either Neemias Queta of Utah or Jericho Sims of Texas would both be solid options.

They fit the bill physically with both standing at least 6-foot-11 and weighing upwards of 240 pounds and are both in the same category as Buler as older, ready-made prospects.

And, while we’ve noted the Hawks ability to take a chance on a higher-upside prospect, this draft could align so well with their needs that playing it “safe” ultimately offers them more upside than any gamble on a player that might not be on the roster when they figure it out.

Next. Atlanta Hawks NBA Draft: 5 players to avoid with the 20th pick. dark

Of course, all of this hinges on Butler falling to them which is less certain after Saturday’s news.