Three Atlanta Hawks players who need to step up in John Collins absence

Atlanta Hawks player who needs to step up No. 1) Danilo Gallinari

When the Atlanta Hawks traded for Danilo Gallinari there was the thought that he was going to replace Collins after the Hawks made a trade. Well, history tells us that the Hawks signed Collins to an extension and they continue to bring Gallinari off the bench.

However, without Collins it is likely that Gallinari will move into the starting lineup. The Hawks tried Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot earlier in the season when Collins was out. This exerecise was not a succes with the Hawks benching TLC early in games as they were too small.

Gallinari is a much better option to start for the franchise with Collins out as he is an elite floor spacer which will allow Trae Young to penetrate into the paint. He is also an effective post player  whio is able to create mismatches against his opponents as a starter or coming off the bench.

As he has gotten older, Gallinari has slowed down a little on defense. This is potentially problematic against the Boston Celtics who have Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown as their two main weapons. However, Gallinari is able to clean up the glass effecively and his offense can help alleviate his defensive issues.