Atlanta Hawks Season Preview
Justin Holiday: The Atlanta Hawks added former Golden State Warriors’ swingman Justin Holiday this offseason in an effort to shore up depth on the wing. Holiday’s length and athleticism make him an intriguing project for the Atlanta Hawks this season, but it’s uncertain how much playing time he will see if the team is healthy. Still though, DeMarre Carroll’s development as a player in the Hawks’ system is a good analogy for how Holiday could turn out.
Mike Scott: Following an drug-related arrest in August, Mike Scott’s legal situation is still uncertain, as the Atlanta Hawks’ reserve faces up to 25 years in prison. Regardless of his legal standing, Mike Scott still has seen significant playing time in the preseason and has performed well. His ability to make an offensive impact on the game off the bench benefits the Hawks, even though it’s frustrating at times when he goes cold. He may figure as an integral part of the rotation, but will still see minutes as long as he’s a part of the team.
Oct 23, 2015; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Atlanta Hawks center Walter Tavares (22) guarded by Detroit Pistons center Joel Anthony (50) during the third quarter at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Pistons win 115-87. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports
Shelvin Mack: Mack begins the year behind both Jeff Teague and Dennis Schroder on the Atlanta Hawks depth chart at the point guard position. Though he won’t see much playing time, it’s tough find a third point guard as reliable and fundamentally sound as Shelvin Mack. His ability to shoot from three-point range also bodes well for him to see time at shooting guard in certain lineups as well.
Walter Tavares: The 7’3” center from Cape Verde made a great impression this preseason for the Atlanta Hawks, as his size and defensive ability make him an intriguing prospect. Though his game is quite raw at this point in time, Tavares will see time in the D-League and will dress for games when the Atlanta Hawks face an opponent with a height advantage. Though his development is a topic of discussion, I don’t see Tavares dressing for many games this season.
Lamar Patterson: The most recent addition to the Atlanta Hawks roster, Lamar Patterson fought his way onto the squad with good performances in the Las Vegas Summer League and during the preseason. Patterson, like Tavares, will most likely see a lot of time in the D-League this year, but could make an impact when the injury bug inevitably hits the team.
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