Atlanta Hawks: Kevin Huerter Will Take a Big Step Forward in 2019
By Kit Anderson
The Atlanta Hawks rebuild has progressed quicker than expected with the emergence of Trae Young and John Collins. This season the biggest key for the Hawks could be Kevin Huerter.
Trae Young is the best player on the Atlanta Hawks roster and should continue to improve this season. John Collins is likely the second-best considering his improving shooting and explosive ability around the rim.
Together the duo made the Hawks fun to watch in spite of yet another losing season. Lost in the excitement of what John Collins and Trae Young were doing was the late-season surge from Kevin Huerter.
After a slow start during his rookie season, Kevin Huerter came on strong in the second half. He finished the season averaging 9.7-points-per-game.
Kevin Huerter may be the biggest key for the Hawks this season. Though that isn’t to say he is one of the best players. Trae Young is a walking double-double who you know what to expect from this season.
He will average close to 20-points a game and put up jaw-dropping assists. Similarly, you know what to expect from Collins who has taken a big step forward and should continue to improve in year 3.
That is two legitimate scorers for a young Hawks roster. If a third were to emerge the Hawks would have a team capable of making the playoffs considering the weakness of the lower half of the Eastern Conference.
The Hawks need a third scorer to emerge to run a consistent offense. The obvious candidate for that position is Kevin Huerter entering his second season in the League.
He has the ability to catch and shoot or help create shots for teammates. His defensive abilities are improving making him a three-and-D player who has the ability to put the ball on the floor. He is going to take a step forward this season and will give the Hawks another consistent scoring threat.
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Opening up the offense for Trae Young and John Collins who without a third scorer on the floor will often face double teams. More to come as the Hawks season grows closer.