The key difference between jumping in the lottery and staying put is the amount of options an organization has. One might think picking earlier would provide a wider range of prospects, but in reality, it's more limited. The top four is decided, it's just the order that's yet to be finalized.
The Hawks won't have any way of knowing who they'll be able to select at pick eight until draft night rolls around. It's a guard-heavy class, so they can at least guess who might be available. One of Kingston Flemings, Mikel Brown Jr. and Keaton Wagler should drop. General Manager Onsi Saleh will be watching closely.
The highest rated prospect is also the one with the most question marks
Wagler is a polarizing prospect. That tag is often thrown around with no merit, but he truly embodies it. There are just a few of them in this class, him included. The confusion surrounding his game is valid, and that particular uncertainty could result in an unexpected draft night slide.
He's often criticized for his lack of burst on the offensive end. Aside from his efficient, high-volume shooting splits, there isn't a differentiator in his game. Normally, standout prospects have a go-to. They have a signature. Wagler does many things the right way, but has yet to unlock a true defining trait.
Atlanta would love the chance to land Wagler with the eighth pick. They're in a strikingly different situation than many in the top ten. While most squads aren't operating with the luxury of being okay with slow development, the Hawks are on an opposite wavelength.
They're rumored to be prioritizing the return of CJ McCollum, giving whoever they draft the opportunity to make mistakes. They'll come off the bench for the veteran guard, making room for a seamless transition to the starting lineup once McCollum calls it quits or departs in some other way.
His fit in the lineup is undeniable in both the immediate and the long-term
His ability to knock down outside shots at a consistent rate is no secret. The gravity he displayed during his breakout freshman season at Illinois paved the way for their success, leading them all the way to the Final Four.
He's got a long way to go as a top offensive initiator, but with a few years of development under his belt, he'll inevitably turn into the player the world knows he can be. Atlanta is the perfect landing spot for him, as the adjustment period will come in a limited role.
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