The Atlanta Hawks are in a good spot. Objectively. Fans can't let a shaky conclusion dictate how they feel about the team's trajectory. They've still got a perfect mix of young players and veterans, giving them the ultimate level of flexibility heading into a pivotal summer. That said, some guys have played their final minutes in the red and yellow.
They got their first taste of postseason basketball, and now they'll look to build on that while staying true to the group's timeline. General Manager Onsi Saleh is set to have his hands full. Every decision matters. Let's take a look at who likely won't be back.
3. Buddy Hield
A true fan favorite, Hield rarely ever had to step on the floor to showcase his impact. He was a major factor in bringing the squad together for their late-season run. His veteran presence was undeniable. However, if he didn't get much run this season, he certainly won't next season.
The organization will be comfortable cutting ties with Hield this offseason, as much as it may hurt. There are better uses of their cap space, and there are better situations for the 33-year-old guard to shine. It wasn't going to be here, but his contributions in keeping this squad connected will never be forgotten.
2. Jock Landale
They almost should consider bringing Landale back to give him a chance at redemption, or just a chance to fire back at Orlando's Goga Bitadze for ending his season. What he did in such a short time with the team shouldn't go unnoticed. He laid the blueprint for what Atlanta needs at the center position, whether as a starter or as a backup to Onyeka Okongwu.
His ability to control the post while still being a threat from the outside gave the Hawks an advantage they've been long searching for. The only problem is, he was a deadline acquisition on an expiring deal. That already gave him a disadvantage in terms of roster construction moving forward.
Simply put, the Hawks are going to address their interior problems this offseason. It's a guarantee. Onyeka Okongwu did a great job, and he could very well still be the starter heading into next year, but they'll look to bring in another guy on his level or higher. Whether that's in the draft or free agency remains to be seen, but as long as it's addressed in some capacity, Landale will be on his way out.
1. Zaccharie Risacher
This one will be the toughest to come to terms with. Just two offseasons removed from being the first-overall pick, Risacher hasn't had an opportunity to blossom. A change of scenery is becoming increasingly likely, and it wouldn't be the worst option for either side.
The Hawks are likely set to extend Head Coach Quin Snyder, and if Risacher wasn't able to crack his rotation in the back half of this past season, the chances he'll see any sort of playing time with a revamped roster are slim.
His future with the organization could also depend on where the Hawks land in the upcoming draft lottery. A top-five selection would command substantial nightly minutes, further pushing the young forward down the priority list.
Teams will be interested in buying low on Risacher this summer, and the Hawks are likely to entertain calls. The most important factor to remember in all of this is that Onsi Saleh didn't draft him. He's made it very clear that if a player isn't in his long-term plans, they're out of here. It could soon be the case with the former top pick.
Add us as a preferred source on Google