Solomon Hill is an enigma for the Atlanta Hawks. He was capable of some of the most boned-headed plays known to basketball, but then he would defend at the highest level he could and stand up for the rest of his team.
Offensively Hill is not very strong, only averaging 5.5 points per game for his entire career. Hill has never been the focal point of the offense though, only averaging 4.9 shot attempts per game. He is shooting 38.8 percent from the floor and 33.1 percent from behind the 3-point line.
Defensively Hill has always been a pest, working hard to stop his man. He has the ability to defend almost every position. He was the spare parts man for the Hawks during the 2020-21 season, doing everything for the franchise. However, when it comes to Solomon Hill, the Hawks like more than just what he brings to the court.
The Atlanta Hawks love Solomon Hill’s leadership
At the start of this season, it was revealed that Hill was a bit of a mentor for the younger Hawks forwards. This was a role that Hill seemed to take on with pride and successful clubs always have an experienced player to fill this role.
Hill also shows the opposition that he will not allow the more talented players on his to be bullied at any stage of the season. We all should remember when Nerlens Noel; bumped Trae Young during their playoff matchup during a break in play. Hill showed that he would not tolerate that and got straight in Noel’s face, standing up for his team leader.
The only reason the Hawks traded Hill was that he tore his hamstring so badly that he was going to miss the rest of the season. Given how Hill can change the culture of a franchise, the Hawks would certainly be wise to offer a one-year veterans minimum deal to Hill. This is a low-risk move which, if he is able to mentor the younger players, could be very rewarding.