The Ringer released its latest mock draft, leaving the Atlanta Hawks making an interesting decision. One that would push the team's view of Trae Young a bit into question. With their first selection, the Hawks added guard Egor Demin. The reasoning listed is simply finding another potential scorer and perhaps an answer if the team does plan to move on from Trae in the next seasons. It should be noted that the publication is rarely positive when it comes to the star Atlanta guard.
This is likely due to the lack of watching a frustrating Hawks team over the past handful of seasons. For Atlanta fans who loyally stick with the organization, it is clear what the value of the point guard is. Still, selecting another scoring guard would put the Hawk star on notice that perhaps the team is preparing for a potential future without Trae.
Atlanta Hawks Potentially Selecting Ego Demin Should Concern Star Point Guard Trae Young
If this were the path the Hawks chose to walk, it would be a sign that perhaps the team isn't certain what the future holds for Trae. It could be that the organization is legitimately concerned about Trae's ability to soon hit free agency and pick his own landing spot. However, the point guard staying loyal to the organization for this long into his career is extremely telling.
Trae simply needs assurance that the Hawks are going to attempt to make winning moves and build a contender around him. Drafting Demin could be viewed as a step in this direction if the young guard can develop into a secondary bench option. If the guard is able to handle the ball and bulk of the scoring in short bursts, the fit could be a positive for Young.
However, it seems more likely the team should look to use the pick either to help trade for an established scorer or aid the team's questionable defense. While Dyson Daniels is an elite start to any defense, the Hawks still could use additional rim protection and defensive-minded guards. Demin doesn't fit into this as a shot creator and potential scoring option. Despite the Ringer's suggestion, the Hawks are unlikely to make the selection with far better fits remaining.