Zaccharie Risacher was an atypical first overall draft pick. Considered by draft experts to be a safe but less ambitious choice, Risacher profiles as an elite role player rather than the usual franchise player archetype. Despite this, Atlanta should see if Risacher can prove the analysts wrong by developing into an on-ball creator, rather than being comfortable having an elite role player.
Many argued that fellow Frenchman Alexandre Sarr should have been selected first, but Risacher silenced the doubters with an incredible performance last season.
Risacher took a step in his development when Jalen Johnson went down with a season-ending injury, but not in the way you might think. Usually, when role players thrive after a star misses time, it is because the role player had a more involved role on the team. This was not necessarily the case for Risacher, who only took one extra shot per game.
After the All-Star break, Risacher averaged 14.6 points per game on 50% shooting from the field and 40% from three. This level of scoring volume and efficiency isn't just rare for a rookie; it's a feat no player could sustain over the entirety of last season.
This is undoubtedly a positive development in Risacher's game. He showed he was already a top-tier role player in the NBA at just 19 years old, a feat that hasn't been done in decades. But Atlanta shouldn't box Risacher into this role. Given his exceptional talent and performance as a rookie, Atlanta should challenge Risacher to reach his full potential and maximize his development.
Atlanta must sacrifice regular season quality of play for Risacher to grow
Risacher is indeed best as a role player today, and his consistency in field goal attempts per game without Johnson suggests that he may be uncomfortable playing in a larger role on a regular basis.
But dynasties aren't forged with teams being content in unambitious situations; they require years of work to hone their craft.
With their new roster, Atlanta has a serious chance to be the best team in the league over the next five years. Trae Young is entering his prime. Jalen Johnson is the perfect Robin to Young's Batman and still has room to develop. Dyson Daniels is the best perimeter defender in the league at just 21 years old. Onyeka Okongwu looked like a stud after sliding into the starting role last season.
While this is an elite young core, tapping into Risacher's offensive game would fully unleash the team's potential. Versatility is key in the modern NBA, as players are getting injured at a higher rate, and the diversity in style of play has never been greater. If Risacher can reach Johnson's offensive production, Atlanta could bring home their first title since the 50s.