The Hawks finished their final preseason game, dropping the last three games and winning the first in an overtime win. With a retooled roster focusing on length, defense, and youth around Trae Young, Quin Snyder had his work cut out with him sorting out rotations and lineups. 

ROTY Loading in the A

Risacher has looked confident throughout the whole preseason. He was confident in his shot from the first game alone and did not look sped up, scoring 18 points in his first official game. Risacher looked like a veteran NBA player, efficient and confident, and not backing down from the challenge. I hope for Risacher and expect him to be a Rookie of the Year contender.

Jalen Johnson Leap

Johnson is primed for a big year. He will get a lot more minutes and opportunities as the second guy behind Trae Young. Johnson scored 21 and 19 points, respectively, with around 20 minutes per game. With more minutes and more on-ball duties, Johnson will be the second option for the Hawks, and his play will dictate whether or not the Hawks will make the playoffs. I predict Johnson will be a contender for the Most Improved Player award.

Quality Players

The Hawks received two quality players, Dy, son Daniels, and Larry Nance Jr., from the Dejounte Murray trade. We already saw what Daniels can do; he is a point-of-attack defender and can make the occasional three and passes. He essentially can do everything. His defense has impressed me the most. The effort he puts into helping defense and still being able to contest his man is impressive.

Larry Nance is also a solid pickup. He is perfect next to Trae as a rim-protecting rolling 5. He will likely be paired with Trae and Kobe and is another vertical spacer for the guards.

The Hawks will host the Brooklyn Nets at State Farm Arena for their season opener on Oct. 23, 7:30 PM EST.