Hawks meet with this exciting draft prospect

According to NBA reporter Mike Vorkunov, the Hawks met with Australian guard prospect Dyson Daniels at the NBA Combine.

Dyson Daniels has met with 9 teams so far at the NBA Combine, including the Knicks, Hawks, Cavaliers, Bucks, Raptors, Kings

— Mike Vorkunov (@MikeVorkunov) May 19, 2022

It’s highly unlikely that Atlanta will snag Daniels with their current pick, as he’s currently projected to go in the top ten, but they are doing their due diligence, and there is always the possibility the Hawks could trade up. Looking at his skillset, the 6’6”, 199-pound guard could be just what Atlanta needs. 

Strengths

Dyson Daniels can do a little bit of everything. He’s a solid playmaker with the ability to score in the paint or on the perimeter, and the 19-year-old can move the ball around as well. But it is his defensive abilities that should be what the Hawks are most attracted to; Daniels plays a tenacious brand of on-ball defense. With his unusual blend of height and speed, he can defend both forwards and guards. 

Weaknesses

One of the most glaring holes in Daniels’ game is his shooting ability — he only shot 25% from 3-point range in 14 G League games. For an offense that thrives off three-pointers such as the Hawks, it’s not ideal to have such a poor shooter on the perimeter. However, the mechanics are in place for a shooting improvement. Over the years, the Hawks have done a tremendous job developing shooters, so the percentages could be something they are willing to overlook. 

Outlook

I’d be ecstatic if Daniels fell to Atlanta. Versatility and defense are two of the Hawks’ most urgent needs, which are his greatest strengths. I love his fit alongside Trae Young as a strong defender and finisher around the rim, and they could end up being an electric guard duo. Additionally, Daniels could end up playing forward for Atlanta if needed; there are reports that he’s grown to 6’8”, 200 pounds, but I’m going with what the official G League site says. Wherever he lands, he has a bright future ahead of him in the NBA.