The later years of the Trae Young era in Atlanta were defined by inconsistent rosters featuring a wide-range of unique talent.
Amidst all of the other inefficiencies in the make-up of the team - most notably the lack of capable defenders, as well as interior size - one thing the front office got right, for the most part, was giving Young capable outside shooters.
The best thing to surround a high-usage playmaker with is a plethora of shooting-specialists. Garrison Mathews, among others, was part of the philosophy Atlanta spent years trying to fully adopt. Now, after seven seasons in the NBA, Mathews is about to begin the newest chapter in his career.
Mathews, like a few other former Hawks, is taking his talents overseas
In a recent interview with The Williamson Herald, Mathews, 29, informed readers that he’ll be signing with Olimpia Milano of the Lega Basket Serie A in Italy.
He isn't the only former Hawk to take his talents overseas this summer. First, it was Jacob Toppin, who was soon followed by Keaton Wallace.
Both spent time on the Hawks roster this past season, and now both are heading to Israel, but for different squads. Toppin with Hapoel Tel Aviv, and Wallace with Maccabi Tel Aviv. Rivals in the same league, matchups between the two should be fairly competitive.
Enter Mathews, who is following the same idea of seeking playing-time overseas, but in a very different way. Heading to Italy, the sharpshooter looks to bring even more NBA experience to his new squad than the others.
What he provides is incredibly valuable to any team, NBA or not. Every roster could use a relentless outside shooter with underrated defensive tendencies.
His green light from the outside is remarkable, and even in a different league, his shot selection should remain similar.
Mathews could regain his value while dominating in another league
Last season, he spent a good bit of time with the Indiana Pacers, but failed to replicate a similar impact to what he showed in his prior destinations.
He only suited up in 15 games and played just over 13 minutes a night.
Again, though, every team in the NBA could use a depth shooter. Mathews, regardless of any other struggles, can shoot the lights out of the ball. For something as low as a minimum contract, he's someone who provides real value.
If he can make some noise with his new squad in Italy, don't count out an NBA return soon.
Good luck, Garry Bird!
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