The most anticipated Summer League since Trae Young was drafted kicked off over the weekend for the Hawks and top pick Zaccharie Risacher made quite the impression, outdueling No. 2 overall pick Alex Sarr.
In 29 minutes, Risacher put up 18 points, leading the Hawks in scoring, on 7-of-16 shooting from the field and 3-of-9 from three-point range. He added five rebounds and a couple of assists compared to Sarr’s 12 points on 4-of-12 shooting. Sarr did chip in seven rebounds with four assists and four blocks, though.
That momentum was halted in Risacher’s second outing in Las Vegas. The 19-year-old struggled to find his shot, finishing with just 11 points on 4-of-12 shooting. He was just 1-of-7 from deep to go with five rebounds, two assists, and a block.
The Hawks and their fans shouldn’t be too high on his first outing or too low on his second. Generally, the Summer League isn’t indicative of a player’s career. Just think back to Trae Young, who looked like he didn’t belong on an NBA court during his first Summer League.
More than anything, the Hawks likely want to see specific things from Zaccharie Risacher. Quin Snyder should have a plan in place to develop Risacher in the areas they want to improve, rather than showcasing strengths for fans to fawn over.
One thing that will continually be brought up is his frame. The 6-foot-8 French wing is clearly still developing physically, and the Hawks won’t see him reach his full potential until he puts on some weight, which will only come with time.
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