The Atlanta Hawks’ journey in the NBA Cup tournament came to an end in the semifinals against the Milwaukee Bucks, but the experience provided valuable insights for our young team. Despite the loss, there were several positives to take away from the run.
One area of concern was the team’s three-point shooting. The Hawks attempted only 24 three-pointers in the semifinal loss, which is simply not enough in today’s NBA. Players like Jalen Johnson, Dyson Daniels, and Zaccharie Risacher need to be more aggressive in taking open shots from beyond the arc, even if they’re not falling at a high rate.
Trae Young’s performance was a standout, carrying the offensive load for much of the game. However, it became evident that he needed more support, especially when he was off the court. The Hawks struggled to generate offense without Young, highlighting the need for secondary creators and shot-makers.
The experience of playing in high-pressure situations will undoubtedly benefit our younger players. For many, including Johnson and Daniels, this was their first taste of playoff-like intensity. The tournament provided a valuable learning opportunity, exposing areas where they need to improve, particularly in shot creation and decision-making under pressure.
Defensively, the Hawks showed promise, but the Bucks’ star power ultimately proved too much to handle. Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard’s ability to create offense when it mattered most highlighted the importance of having multiple elite playmakers.
Looking ahead, the Hawks need to address their shooting woes and develop more reliable offensive options beyond Young. The return of Kobe Buffkin to the rotation could provide a boost in ball-handling and shot creation, areas where the team struggled in his absence from the second unit.
While the semifinal loss was disappointing, the NBA Cup run showcased the Hawks’ potential and areas for growth. As we return to regular season play, the focus will be on implementing the lessons learned and continuing to develop our young core.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Hawks’ NBA Cup performance, tune into the Locked On Hawks podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Hawks Podcast:
• Analyzing Bogdan Bogdanović's performance and shot selection
• The impact of officiating on the game’s outcome
• Potential roster moves to address team needs
