The Atlanta Hawks have a number of interesting decisions to make this offseason. They are looking to move a few pieces in an effort to improve their defense especially to get to the level required to be a serious contender in the Eastern Conference which is where they belong.
So, with Lou Williams not calling time on his career as he was expected to at the end of last season, should they pass or pursue the bench master? Well, while Williams will not help the Hawks on the defensive end, he is certainly a player who can impact a game.
Looking at the rest of the statements made by the Hawks over the summer, you can understand why it is a good course to pursue the Atlanta native. They are looking at making more playing time available for Onyeka Okongwu and these two formed an incredible connection in Okongwu’s rookie season which has only strengthened over their two seasons together.
The Atlanta Hawks should certainly pursue Lou Williams.
Williams is Okongwu’s veteran, that much has been made clear and every young player needs a veteran voice in their ear. While they are two totally different players, Okongwu being a defensive-minded big man and Williams being an all-out offensive guard, Okongwu is growing with Williams on the team.
Another piece of the puzzle is the news that came out of Europe in June. Sharpshooter Bogdan Bogdanovic has had surgery on his knee for the second straight offseason. This means that while he might be back for the start of the season he may be on a minutes restriction. Williams would be a tremendous asset to have at the start of the season to support the starters.
The other aspect that needs to be addressed is that the Hawks have very little wiggle room on their salary cap sheet. If they could get Williams for a veteran’s minimum then this would help, especially if they are able to move John Collins who is the most likely Hawk to be traded.
So, will the re-signing of Williams improve the Hawks to the point of contending? No, it will not. What it will do is allow the Hawks to continue to develop Okongwu where the third-year man will have a greater level of comfort which will help them contend. The Atlanta Hawks should definitely pursue Lou Williams