Atlanta Hawks NBA Basketball will begin this month. Players and coaches have taken their media day apart and answered questions from the media. I went through and watched all of the interviews for each Hawks player, coach, and general manager; here are my main takeaways:

Committed to Size & Versatility

Both Snyder and Landry have verbally committed to getting bigger, and we can see that they stayed true to their word. With the addition of Dyson Daniels (6’7″), Zaccharie Risacher (6’9″), and Larry Nance Jr. (6’8″), the Hawks have acquired lengthy wings and size, which is what last year’s roster lacked. Not to mention the current players Jalen Johnson(6’8”), Clint Capela(6’10”), De’Andre Hunter(6’8”), and Onyeka Okongwu (6’9”).

With so many lengthy wings, the Hawks can plug and play lineups surrounding Trae Young to match a specific situation or give the defense different looks. 

Durability

With both Young and Johnson missing ample time due to injuries, they have committed to becoming more durable. While accidents may happen, and injuries are unpredictable, both players spoke about how they are gearing up for the arduous regular season. 

Young spoke about focusing on strength during the offseason. Young claims that he focuses on durability in his career instead of improving his bag of tricks. Young also says that he would rather play than watch.

Johnson spoke about sticking with certain types of shoes and committing to wearing ankle braces. 

Risacher Will Exceed Expectations

I have only heard good things about Risacher, whether through reports, teammates, or even the coach. Snyder talks highly about him him, highlighting his work ethic. There is some truth to him being a workhorse, he already looks more muscular in the interview compared to summer league.

NBA preseason games start next week, with the Hawks hosting the Indiana Pacers at State Farm Arena on Oct. 8. The game will begin at 7:30 PM ET.