The offseason is grinding down to a halt as most of the notable acquisitions are made. The Atlanta Hawks came off a disappointing first-round exit from the 2022 NBA playoffs, losing 4-1 against the Miami Heat. Many people expected another deep run from the Hawks, who made it to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021. Glaring weaknesses such as a lack of secondary ball-handling and shot-creating and the overall lack of a defensive identity led to a dismantling by the Miami Heat. The Atlanta Hawks look to address their glaring weaknesses this offseason by acquiring all-star Dejounte Murray from the San Antonio Spurs.

The Addition of Murray

The Hawk’s most significant offseason move was acquiring Dejounte Murray from the San Antonio Spurs. Bringing in Murray will allow for a secondary ball-handler and shot-creator, which the Hawks sorely needed. Trae Young can play off-ball and run more off-ball sets for him, similar to how the Golden State Warriors run plays for Stephen Curry. Additionally, Coach McMillan can stagger Murray and Young’s minutes, allowing Murray to run the offense while Young is on the bench. The Hawk’s offense introduces a new wrinkle, making them a more significant offensive threat. In return, the Hawks gave up some draft capital they will not use in the future and an aging Danilo Gallinari on an expiring contract.

X’s and O’s

The addition of Murray will solve all of the Hawk’s offensive woes. The current question now is the defense. The Hawk’s defense has been suspect this past season. They ranked 26th in the league, with a defensive rating of 113.7 per NBA.com. While Murray is not a minus defender, one player will not change the Hawk’s glaring lack of identity. The Hawks must resolve this defensive problem through in-season trades or picking up free agents.