Atlanta Hawks: 5 Things Learned in Preseason Opener vs. Cavs

Oct 7, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard

(5) is guarded by the Atlanta Hawks guard

Jr. (10) during the first half at Cintas Center. Mandatory Credit: Frank Victores-USA TODAY Sports

THE ATLANTA HAWKS ARE A DEEP TEAM

Wednesday’s game against Cleveland showed how deep the Atlanta Hawks truly are this season. Kent Bazemore started the game for Thabo Sefolosha, who is currently in New York on trial following an altercation with the NYPD in April. Bazemore impressed, showing an improved stroke from beyond the arc, active defense, and his athleticism in trying to get to the basket.

PG Dennis Schroder also showed that he has refined his game even more, scoring 8 points on 4-6 shooting in 18 minutes. Schroder, coming off of a summer spent with the German national team, looked calmer and more composed on the court. His speed in getting to the basket is unmatched, and looks less erratic on offense. If he continue to develop, the Atlanta Hawks will have one of the most potent PG tandems in the league.

We also saw new additions Tim Hardaway, Jr. and Justin Holiday on the court. Hardaway looked confused and out of sync — which is to be expected coming from the mess that is the New York Knicks. It will take time for Hardaway to adjust to the patient and methodical system of the Atlanta Hawks offense. Justin Holiday played for 16 minutes, even getting time with the starters. Though he only scored 4 points, Holiday looks as if he can develop into a nice rotational player for the Hawks.

Mike Muscala, Mike Scott and Shelvin Mack also saw playing time, displaying the true depth of this club. In addition to the aforementioned players, we also saw some of the non-roster invitees, including Lamar Patterson. Patterson started the second half, and played for 12 minutes. Though he only scored 2 points, it looks as if he has the inside track for the final roster spot.

Next: A Top Prospect Shines