Hawks’ center target possesses underrated skill that could make him the missing piece

A modern center is difficult to define.

Every year, it seems a new archetype takes the crown for what teams should target during their vital roster-building process. Championship-caliber squads are constructed strategically, and the post anchor is the most important piece.

It's no secret that the league is getting bigger. Bigger at every position, really. Centers no longer have the luxury of being able to succeed as a one-trick pony. They need to be able to do it all in order to make their impact felt.

Michigan's Aday Mara fits the mold perfectly. His underrated ability to operate on the perimeter, combined with his elite rim-protecting traits, confirms his fit in Atlanta would be one of one.

His outside shooting is a lesser-known weapon to his arsenal

He didn't get to put it on full display during his impressive collegiate years, but he's made it clear that he plans on incorporating it into his game long-term. Amidst his other headline-shaping developments at this year's NBA Draft Combine, his three-point shooting made some scouts turn their heads.

Mara shot 12/25 from three-point range in a spot-up shooting drill, showcasing his ability to knock down outside shots at a consistent rate. While it doesn't compare to the better long-range threats of the class, he's doing this at 7'3".

It's difficult to ignore the incredible potential Mara possesses. He's developed a solid reputation for his rim-protection, rebounding, screening and lob-finishing, but this newfound expansion of his game could be what gives him a long, successful career at the next level.

At Michigan, he knocked down just three three-pointers on ten total attempts. If he's drafted to Atlanta, Head Coach Quin Snyder will almost certainly emphasize bringing that volume up tremendously. If he proves he can knock it down at a consistent clip, there's no reason for him to shy away.

Hawks have no problem developing bigs into outside shooters

Atlanta is a stretch big factory. The most recent example of this is Onyeka Okongwu, who only knocked down one three in his lone season at USC. His form looked alright, and there was clearly some untapped potential there, so they turned him into a knockdown shooter after several years of development.

There's no reason to believe Coach Snyder couldn't do the same with Mara. The center position has shifted, and it's hard for a group to find much success if their starter can't at least be a threat from deep.

If he can start pulling with confidence, he'll quickly become one of the most dynamic young bigs in the league.

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