The Atlanta Hawks are heading into the 2025 NBA Draft aiming to build steadily and smartly. After a season that began with promise but ended in disappointment due to injuries and a pair of playoff losses, Atlanta is focused on reshaping its roster correctly. Despite missing the playoffs, the front office ended up with two first-round picks, No. 13 from the Sacramento Kings and No. 22 from the New Orlando Pelicans.
The No. 22 pick presents the Hawks with a valuable chance to add to their young core. With names like Trae Young, Jalen Johnson, Dyson Daniels, Zaccharie Risacher, and Onyeka Okongwu already in place, Atlanta doesn’t need to rush a rebuild. Instead, they can take a calculated risk on a high upside prospect or use the pick in a smart trade. Still, given their recent success developing athletic forwards, the best play may be to stay put and continue building from within.
With the 1st pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, the Atlanta Hawks select Zaccharie Risacher! pic.twitter.com/TH713LZYPF
— Atlanta Hawks (@ATLHawks) June 27, 2024
That’s where Asa Newell enters the center of the conversation. The 6-foot-9 forward from the University of Georgia fits the mold of past Atlanta success stories. His athleticism, defensive tools, and upside caught the attention of scouts, and Clutchpoints’ most recent mock draft has him available at No. 22 . For a team that thrived developing talent at this position, Newell makes a lot of sense.
Atlanta Hawks Eye On Their Next Development Win
Atlanta proved it knows how to maximize this player archetype. Trae Young’s elite pick-and-roll play has historically elevated lob threats like John Collins, Okongwu, and, more recently, Jalen Johnson. Newell, with his springy frame and motor, could thrive similarly. At 19, Newell has the time and the team infrastructure to develop.
He’s not a shooter yet, but neither was Johnson when he arrived. Atlanta’s system gives these players time to grow without pressure. With the 13th pick expected to address the backcourt, the Hawks can double down on their development blueprint with their 22nd pick on the NBA Draft day.
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Also Read: REPORT: NBA Teams Closely Watching Atlanta Hawks Amid Growing Uncertainty Over Trae Young’s Future And Massive Extension Decision
