5 top targets for the Atlanta Hawks after winning the NBA Draft Lottery

For the first time in franchise history, the Atlanta Hawks have won the first overall pick in the NBA draft. Even though there is no consensus generational talent available in the 2024 NBA Draft, this selection couldn’t come at a better time for a Hawks team that has taken several steps back since reaching the NBA Finals. 2021 Eastern Conference.

Led by Trae Young and Dejounte Murray, the Hawks already have an impressive core of talent, but it’s clear they’re still missing a key piece. Landing the No. 1 pick in the draft gives general manager Landry Fields an opportunity to draft a prospect who can transcend the Hawks to become a championship contender again, but Atlanta needs to pick the right player.

Just because the Hawks have the first pick doesn’t mean Atlanta will be on a better path. For every Anthony Edwards, there is an Anthony Bennett. The Hawks still need to make sure they pick the right player.

So, who are the top candidates to be drafted first by the Atlanta Hawks on June 26? Here is a list of the top prospects in the 2024 NBA Draft.

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Ron Holland, forward

At 6-foot-8, Ron Holland could bring more size to the Hawks roster. He also presents a versatile defender, capable of putting the ball on the floor to create his own shot. Unfortunately, it’s just not a very consistent shooter. Shooting 3-pointers at just 24% with no mid-range play, Netherlands’ best traits show up on defense, but there’s plenty of room for growth.

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Stephon Castle, guard

Things could get tricky if the Hawks take a guard with the No. 1 overall pick, but Stephon Castle could be an ideal fit in Atlanta’s rotation. At 6-foot-6 with excellent on-ball defense, Castle would bring much-needed size and defensive ability to Atlanta’s backcourt, but his shooting could improve. Still, with Castle’s defensive ability, he would have no trouble making an instant impact on the Hawks.

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Matas Buzelis, small forward

Matas Buzelis has rare skills for his 6-foot-10 size. The playmaking wing with a smooth shot could still develop his strength and become more consistent with his energy, but he has superstar potential. A good dribbler, passer, shooter and shot blocker, Buzelis has one of the highest ceilings in the draft class.

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Zacharie Risacher, small forward

French in the mold of a 3 and D wing, Zaccharie Risacher has good size at 6 feet 8 inches. His best skill right now is his perimeter shooting, where Risacher could become a high-volume shooter from distance. But his defense cannot be underestimated, bringing together a player with a high floor on both ends of the court.

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Alex Sarr, center

Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

If the Hawks want to add some serious size to their team, 7-foot-1 Frenchman Alex Sarr would be the perfect fit. Projected top pick, Sarr is an excellent defender who can protect the rim and step out and defend the perimeter as well. But Sarr is not just a defender.

He’s also a talented player who continues to develop his shooting range and consistency, but he has the quickness to run down the court and finish explosive plays in transition. Still, Sarr has the frame to become a good scorer, at all three levels, and his size alone will present challenges for pick-and-roll defenders.

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