NBA Basketball is back and running. The Las Vegas Summer League began yesterday, and more games are scheduled for later today, including a matchup between the Hawks and the Miami Heat. Here is the Hawks’ final roster in the summer league, as well as some prospects to look out for.

Finalized Roster

Key Players to Keep an Eye On

Kobe Bufkin 

The new management has given complete trust in Bufkin, despite his recurring injuries. He is projected to be the backup for Trae, which is a tall order.

This summer league, I expect Bufkin to shake the rust off the injury. Going into his 3rd NBA season, he should be the best player on the floor at all times. I expect to see flashes of his scoring as well as his ability to control the pace of the game.

Asa Newell

Newell will have to carve out a niche for himself to gain ample playing time. The Hawks’ frontcourt is stacked with little minutes to play. 

I expect him to be primarily an energy and pick-and-roll big. During these games, expect to see how well Newell operates and finishes the pick-and-roll game, as well as his ability to protect the paint.

 Nikola Đurišić

After a horrific injury in last year’s summer league, Đurišić will be easing his way back and shaking off the rust. Although his performance in last year’s summer league left much to be desired, a year-round coaching staff and experience in the NBA should help him improve. 

Hopefully, he has put on more bulk and will become more efficient in scoring and be more careful in taking care of the ball, as those were his two glaring weaknesses last year.

 Kobe Johnson

This is arguably the most interesting pickup for this summer league team. This is Jalen Johnson’s younger brother. He is a bit shorter but has more weight compared to his older brother. His defensive intensity is the primary focus here, as he is completely committed to stopping his matchup in its tracks.