Report: Edy Tavares likely to play Spain next season

The Atlanta Hawks selected 7-foot-3 center Walter “Edy Tavares” with the 43rd overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft, but despite a positive showing in the Las Vegas Summer League, it appears as if Tavares will be remaining overseas, at least for next season. Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that it is “very likely” that Tavares will play in Spain for the 2014-2015 season, and he will be participating with Gran Canaria in the ACB League.

In the piece from Vivlamore, Tavares was quoted as saying the following about staying overseas:

"“The good thing about going overseas, I will definitely play there. I will play a lot of minutes and continue to improve my game and get more experience toward the next step of being (in the NBA).”"

The big man was impressive in limited minutes in Las Vegas, averaging 6.0 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game, and more importantly, his athletic ability was impressive. Tavares has shown the ability to protect the rim even in this raw state of basketball skill, and his shooting form has been impressive, especially when given his massive frame.

Atlanta also traded for former Pittsburgh swingman Lamar Patterson as a second-round selection, and at this stage, Patterson is on track to participate in training camp to compete for a permanent roster spot. Stay tuned.