Trae Younger has gone from franchise face to an unsure future with the Atlanta Hawks in only a matter of two seasons. Younger couldn’t attain an settlement with Atlanta on a long-term extension this previous offseason, resulting in rumors that he is probably not a Hawk after this yr.
This season was set as much as be an important one in Atlanta, and one that will decide Younger’s future. They’ve constructed a workforce round him that’s predicated on athleticism, protection, and flexibility.Â
We haven’t seen a lot of Younger this yr, as he has been out coping with a knee harm he suffered within the fifth recreation of the season. By way of these 5 video games although, Younger’s effectivity struggles continued. He has shot solely 37 p.c from the sphere, 19 p.c from three-point vary, and hadn’t shot higher than 42 p.c from the sphere in any of the 4 video games he began and completed.Â
Trae Younger has been out for the final couple weeks resulting from a knee sprain, however given how the Hawks have appeared in his absence, his future in Atlanta is changing into clearer.
The Hawks have thrived in Trae Younger’s absence
Within the 9 video games that Younger has missed, Atlanta has gone 7-2 in these video games. They’re fourth in defensive score, eleventh in offensive score, and ninth in total internet score in that span. Jalen Johnson has been sensational, averaging practically 22 factors per recreation, ten rebounds, and 6 assists.Â
Nickeil Alexander-Walker has additionally stepped up offensively, averaging practically 18 PPG. Dyson Daniels has stuffed in because the lead ball-handler, and playmaker, as he has six video games with not less than six assists within the 9 video games with out Younger.
Even Atlanta’s frontcourt of Kristaps Porzingis, and Onyeka Okongwu have thrived, even with out the pick-and-roll maestro that Younger is. They’ve been imposing figures within the paint, and for Okongwu, his offensive recreation lastly appears to be coming round. He’s averaging a career-high in factors (15.7), and three-point share (38.7.). He’s at practically 27 PPG in his final three video games,Â
The Hawks have discovered success with this present roster
Atlanta has been in a position to re-form their id with Johnson on the helm, and enjoying robust protection. Their offense can also be much less reliant on pick-and-roll, and extra about getting groups into rotation.
Even with Younger on the court docket this season, the outcomes haven’t been fairly. Lineups with Younger on the court docket have produced a -9.8 internet score, and a 125.7 defensive score.Â
This was set as much as be a prove-it yr for Younger, and whereas he has been injured, the truth that the Hawks are thriving with out him has to ring alarm bells inside the group, and if this continues, Atlanta could minimize ties with Younger sooner slightly than later.
