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NBA draft just beginning of Hawks' offseason moves

Lauren Williams, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution on

Published in Basketball

ATLANTA — Just days remain until the Hawks decide who will be the newest member of the team. That choice will kick-start an offseason that will shape the future of the team.

After another season where the Hawks underachieved, they’ll need to take advantage of this offseason. They have several options ahead of them including trading either members of their backcourt in Trae Young and Dejounte Murray, trading both or keeping both. Trading both players could signal that the franchise has opted to focus on rebuilding despite having little draft capital in the next three drafts.

Hawks general manager Landry Fields said the team is committed to finding the right fit — and not just for the short term.

Draft analysts have mocked or linked the Hawks to a few different players, including Zaccharie Risacher, Alexandre Sarr and Donovan Clingan, throughout the draft process. Each player would address some of the Hawks’ needs. They also fit the teams’ timelines in a variety of ways.

Here’s a look at how Risacher, Clingan and Sarr fit into the Hawks future.

If Young and Murray stay

 

Risacher — With both guards in the mix, the Hawks will have the ability to develop the 19-year-old wing alongside their backcourt duo. Both guards can take advantage of Risacher’s natural cutting instincts, which will continue to open up of the floor.

Young has shown that he can thread the needle and make passes, while Murray has shown he is at his best when he makes quick decisive plays.

Clingan — Should the Hawks hold onto Young and Murray, they’ll need to get ready for life post-Clint Capela. The veteran center is on the final year of his contract and the Hawks will need to replenish their depth at the position.

The Connecticut center could be a strong pick-and-roll partner for the Hawks’ guards. Plus, he could give the Hawks a strong defensive presence in the paint.

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