The Hawks have their work cut out for them this past season. The looming question most fans ask is, does this current roster have what it takes to be a championship contender? While it is optimistic to want to give the benefit of the doubt and assume that Snyder will make the whole team play better, it is not a guaranteed change. After following a 41-41 season with a first-round exit, this team is not built for a deep run, and changes need to happen. 

Notable Free Agents

The Hawks have most of their key players locked in for a couple of years, so we will likely see the same roster start in the 2023-24 season. The only changes would be their two-way contracts and incoming rookies, but that should not affect the lineup as the rotation is set in stone. There are notable names like James Harden and Kyrie Irving, but they would not solve any problems the Hawks have. Other free agent names like Kristaps Porzingis,Khris Middleton or Draymond Green would be interesting additions. While these additions could improve it is unlikely they target any free agents as they are $30 million over the cap salary.

All Eyes On Snyder

Coming into the 2023-24 regular season, this team should look completely different; not in terms of roster but in terms of the systems in place and playstyle. We have seen flashs of Snyder’s system, and he loves to experimenting and take risks. Unlike McMillan, Snyder does not hesitate to experiment with rotations and is flexible during games. Making adjustments and getting 100% out of his personnel is what I expect Snyder to do. Snyder has the most expectations and pressure this year, and we will see how the Hawks play under him.

Defense, Defense, Defense

It was no surprise to hear that the Hawks need more defense. The Hawks had the 9th worst defensive rating in the league, allowing an average of 116 points per every 100 possessions. The Hawks can be average defenders when they put in the effort, and they have shown flashes when Snyder took over. The Hawks will get the benefit of the doubt, and we will see how their defense holds up when fully healthy and a training camp under Snyder’s coaching.

Logjam at the Frontcourt

Snyder has decided to split the center between Capella and Okungwu, which is reasonable as each offers a different skill set. However, Okongwu has quickly proven to be as capable of a rebounder and rim protector as Capela has. Expect Snyder to play the centers based on the matchup and whoever has the front hand. At the power forward position, Collins, JJ, and Bey occupy the power forward position. Bey has been an excellent addition to the team, as he provides solid defense and he spaces the floor. Bey will get more looks and is expected to flourish under Snyder. The same can be said for Collins, where Snyder will utilize him better. Collins has been a tweener, as he is too small to play center but too big to play on the wing. His 3-pt shooting has improved mightily and Snyder has done an excellent job in utilizing him. JJ is coming off his sophomore season, but he looks poised as ever. He has excellent vision that allows him to be a perfect role man, as well as his serviceable shooting and finishing. The FO has to make a decision to get rid of the logjam, and they should consider any trade that involves Capela or Collins, as their counterparts fit better alongside Trae and within Snyder’s system. Trading either of them will unlock more minutes for JJ, which would benefit the team as he brings so much to the table and has potential.

The Hawks have a long offseason ahead of them as they must adjust to Snyder’s system. Under the tutelage of Snyder, the Hawks will hopefully improve on their 41-41 record. As of now, no changes are expected to be made, but the FO will have to reanalyze this team and specific players at the All-Star Break if this team is underperforming again.