When the Atlanta Hawks surprisingly received the primary decide in 2024, many considered it as a chance to get a worthwhile core participant to spice up their playoff odds within the East. Regardless of the 2024 draft class being one of many weaker ones in reminiscence, the consensus was that the Hawks would have the ability to land an influence participant.
Atlanta chosen Zaccharie Risacher with their decide, over guys like Reed Sheppard, Alex Sarr, and Stephon Fortress. The Hawks did want a wing and Risacher match the mildew they have been in search of. The hope was he may develop properly alongside Trae Younger and Jalen Johnson.
Risacher confirmed flashes of how good he might be throughout his rookie season, however his second season has not provided the identical hope. With that, Atlanta may quickly be compelled to just accept a harsh actuality in regards to the younger ahead.
The Hawks made a mistake drafting Zaccharie Risacher first total
Risacher’s numbers this season are down all throughout the board. He’s taking pictures solely 34 p.c from three on the season, and is just averaging 9 factors per sport through the month of December. Atlanta has a -0.4 internet ranking with him on the ground this season.
He’s not taking part in with confidence and freedom, which results in him disappearing throughout video games at instances. He has not been in a position to absolutely alter to NBA physicality and athleticism as nicely.
To make issues worse, his draft friends are shining elsewhere. Sarr is prospering in Washington and has taken nice strides in his second season. Sheppard has been given the sixth man function in Houston and has been one of many league’s finest from three-point vary.
Fortress was final season’s rookie of the 12 months and has taken one other step ahead this season, forming a deadly tandem with Victor Wembanyama.
The Hawks are additionally reportedly prepared to commerce Risacher away to the Mavericks in a possible deal for Anthony Davis, signaling that his days in Atlanta are numbered. The truth that the group is prepared to chop ties with their former high choice for an ageing star ahead is telling.
Risacher is in no way a nasty participant, however given the place he was drafted, extra is anticipated of him relating to manufacturing. Perhaps all of the younger ahead wants is a contemporary begin, however the Hawks chopping ties with their former high decide is a tricky capsule to swallow, particularly when he was imagined to be a giant a part of their future.
