Atlanta Hawks Free Agency: Which Free Agents should the Hawks pursue?

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DETROIT, MI – FEBRUARY 07: Jahlil Okafor #4 of the Brooklyn Nets tries to get a shot off over Andre Drummond #0 of the Detroit Pistons during the second half at Little Caesars Arena on February 7, 2018 in Detroit, Michigan. Detroit won the game 115-106. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

Jahlil Okafor
C 6’11 275 lbs Age 22
Stats: 6.3 PPG, 3 RPG, 0.4 APG, 0.3 BPG
Per 36 min: 17.9 Pts, 8.7 Reb, 1.2 Ast, 1.8 blks
Shooting: FG: 55.8% 3PT: 25% FT: 72.4%

Jahlil Okafor is the 4th and final former top 10 pick, and 2nd in our sleeper portion, of this free agents list. Jahlil is an old-fashioned, basket to the basket big man. He struggles to defend in space. His numbers and minutes have declined drastically, since being All-Rookie 1st Team coming out of Duke University. Jahlil also needs to improve as a passer and roll man.

Where Okafor offers potential value for the Atlanta Hawks is a backup Center, and go to man on the 2nd unit. He is a load to handle on the block and often has to be double teamed in the post. His 17.9 points per 36 mins, prove that Okafor is still a legitimate NBA scorer.

He also adds value as a pretty good rebounder and rim protector.

Verdict: Coach Lloyd Pierce is very familiar with Okafor, as they spent time in Philly together. Okafor is bad on the defensive end, but Pearce should be able to hide him schematically in limited minutes. If Coach Pearce signs off on it, the Atlanta Hawks should sign JO to the veteran’s minimum. This would be contingent on a roster spot being available.

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