With playoff basketball right around the corner, the Hawks are preparing for every possible scenario. They've spent weeks adjusting, shortening rotations and making critical decisions as the postseason looms. It's appeared to come at the expense of a promising young forward, but the unpredictability of a high-stakes environment ensures teams are unable to rule anything out.
Zaccharie Risacher has had a rollercoaster of a second NBA season. From being viewed as a crucial component of the starting lineup, to being benched in favor of a veteran guard, to receiving his first-career DNP, it's become unclear exactly where he falls on Quin Snyder's priority list. With a first-round series against the Knicks inching closer, he could soon have a chance to eliminate any doubt.
This upcoming series favors Risacher's playstyle in a fascinating way
Atlanta has a clear disadvantage in terms of frontcourt size against New York. If managed correctly, it could quickly become something the Knicks take full advantage of in order to create real separation in an otherwise even series. The Hawks' potential counter, though, could catch them off guard in a way they would never expect.
The end of the bench is murky. With Jock Landale likely missing the entire series as he recovers from a high right ankle sprain, Atlanta could go a variety of ways. One of those options includes giving Zaccharie Risacher some extended run. His strengths perfectly align with what New York's missing, giving him an invaluable opportunity to give his team a boost.
For one, they'll need additional rebounders. Mitchell Robinson excels on both the offensive and defensive glass, and he could find himself thriving against Atlanta's thin frontcourt if no adjustments are made. Size is crucial, and if the Hawks lean into their unique length at the wing, it could prove to be a valid counter to their center problem.
He does all of the little things that could translate to postseason success
Of course, he's young and inexperienced, but there's no better way to figure out what needs to be improved on than by throwing him into the spotlight. Madison Square Garden either brings out the best or worst in a player, and a standout series from Risacher could be just the confidence boost he's been needing.
Crashing the glass is crucial come playoff-time, but he's able to create advantages in other important areas, further justifying the need for him to see the floor in the playoffs. He's quick, thrives in transition, shoots efficiently from the outside and can defend multiple positions.
It'll be a matter of how much trust Coach Snyder has in him, and if history is any indicator, it's not much. Even if he elects to prioritize Corey Kispert or Tony Bradley, if it doesn't quickly produce the necessary results, he'll be given an opportunity to right his wrongs and put the second-year forward in.
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