Atlanta Hawks: Lou Williams reaching out is a great sign for free agency
The Atlanta Hawks and Lou Williams are looking at coming to an agreement to go around again next season given the success of the partnership between the two last season. Williams has certainly hinted on social media that he would like to come back.
The three-time Sixth Man of the Year came over in the Rajon Rondo trade from the LA Clippers and promptly reminded the NBA that he owns the fourth quarter. He helped fix the offense in the non-Trae Young minutes which was crucial for the Hawks in their quest for a playoff spot.
However, for me, it was the connection that he had with rookie Onyeka Okongwu that was the veteran’s biggest impact on the team, outside of his game anyway. Williams took on Okongwu, becoming his veteran on the team and the two performed so well in the pick and roll.
Lou Williams shows that he is committed to the Atlanta Hawks
During their first official team interview, both Sharife Cooper and Jalen Johnson were asked who had reached out to them from the Hawks’ squad. Both of them cited Trae Young as being the first to reach out and this is a tremendous display of his leadership of this team.
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However, the second name that Cooper said will make Hawks fans happy. Williams reached out to the second-round pick which is a sign that he is keen on coming back next season. If he was thinking of going elsewhere or retiring he probably not be making this effort.
However, what this also says is that with Okongwu out, Williams will be looking for another rookie to mentor. As Cooper loves to work hard, Williams will be looking to pour as much knowledge and information into the rookie to help him develop.
This is one of the reasons that the Hawks were so successful last season. Younger players were surrounded by league veterans who had been signed in the previous offseason. This is something that this team has not had an abundance of over the last few seasons with the exception being Vince Carter.
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When a current veteran teammate comes and gives you hints and tips to help improve your game, the smart players listen. This is how they grow their game without making as many mistakes on the court as often. Let’s hope Williams is around to help these rookies this season.