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

Atlanta Hawks player who needs to step up No. 2) Onyeka Okongwu

The Hawks have been a better team since the return of Onyeka Okongwu. He has bought a level of energy and intensity to the floor since he came back from shoulder surgery and is responsible for a number of wins for the franchise.

In fact, the play of Okongwu is the main reason that Collins should not play any more time at center for the Hawks. Collins is a tremendous rim protector but his positional defense needs work. The Hawks are a better defensive unit with either Clint Capela or Okongwu on the court.

Okongwu has taken on some of the best players in the NBA since his return and more than held his own. He has slowed down the likes of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Joel Embiid, helping the Hawks to wins during both these games.

However, Okongwu has also grown at the offensive end of the floor. His is averaging 8.7 points per game, up from 4.6 in his rookie season. He is taking the right shots, hitting 71.7 percent from the floor which is at the top end of the NBA. Given his connection with his guards is growing every game, his ability to impact a game will grow the more court time he gets.