The NBA Draft is on June 22 and the Atlanta Hawks have an opportunity to bring in a player that can help them immediately with the 15th pick in the first round. One can debate on if the Hawks should try to trade a pick for a veteran player or even move around in the draft but we will do that as we get closer to draft day. For now, let’s take a look at a few of the prospects that may or may not be around.
You can debate on if you believe Atlanta needs a player on the wing, a big man, or another guard, and here we will take a glance at a little of each.
Gradey Dick 6’8” | 205lb – Freshman Kansas Forward
Kansas wing Gradey Dick should be at the top of the Hawks’ wish list. It’s doubtful that he will be there when they pick, but if he happens to slide for some reason look for the Hawks to immediately make the selection. Gradey Dick is an elite-level shooter who can hit shots from anywhere on the court. He could remind some Hawks fans of Kevin Huerter or a slightly more athletic Bogdan Bogdanovic.
Jalen Hood-Schifino 6’6” | 215lb – Freshman Indiana Guard
Indiana freshman Jalen Hood-Schifino is a top-level guard, who at 6’6” is tough on both ends of the floor. He can play the pick and roll, shoot well in the midrange and facilitate the basketball. He has a great handle on the ball and can get hot from behind the arc. Jalen Hood Schifino’s game reminds me a little of Jordan Clarkson.
Derrick Lively 7’1” | 230lb – Freshman Duke Center
Big man Derrick Lively is a game-changing rim protector and rebounder on the defensive end. He is working on getting better at scoring the basketball. He’s an athletic big man that can hop and even though he is only 230, his frame will allow him to add weight. Derrick Lively’s game and frame have drawn comparisons to Tyson Chandler and Willie Cauley-Stein.
Leonard Miller 6’10” | 215lb – G League Ignite Forward
G League Ignite forward Leonard Miller had a good showing with the G League Ignite. He has shown that he can be a tough player in the paint while being a man on the boards and he can also get out on the wing, defend and shoot the three. He can handle the ball, get to the basket and finish with either hand. One comparison Miller has drawn with his game is Al Harrington.
Jett Howard 6’7” | 220lb – Freshman Michigan Forward
Freshman guard Jett Howard is the son of former NBA player and Michigan head coach Juwan Howard. Jett Howard is probably one of the best shooters in this year’s draft and will be looked at by the Hawks to space the floor. He is very athletic and can play the big guard spot as well as forward. Howard has drawn comparisons to Mike Miller.