The 2023 NBA Draft takes place on Thursday, June 22, as both rounds are wrapped up in one night. As it approaches, TGH will be taking a quick look some teams’ draft strategies, and shedding some light on what direction they will go with their picks.. Here is the Atlanta Hawks NBA Draft profile for 2023.
Summary
Atlanta finished with a .500 record (41-41), were second in their division and eighth in the Eastern Conference. They entered the Play-In Tournament as the seventh seed, and made the postseason by defeating the eventual Eastern Conference champions, the Miami Heat. In the playoffs, they lost in the first round to the Boston Celtics in six games.
2023 Draft Picks
The Hawks have two picks in the 2023 NBA Draft.
First Round (one pick):
- Pick #15
Second Round (one pick):
- Pick #46
Team Needs
- Three-and-D wing (possibly multiple)
- Other floor-spacing shooters
Projected Targets
Pick #15: G.G. Jackson, F, South Carolina
Jackson is the youngest player in the 2023 NBA Draft, and it shows. He’s a bit of a ball-hog and his efficiency is…not fantastic. But the ceiling for Jackson is insanely high. He could easily be the steal of the draft if he develops quickly.
At 6-foot-9, Jackson is freaky athletic for his size. His range extends to the three point line, and with a little polish could definitely be a great above-the-rim player. Defense comes down to willingness, because his athletic profile suggests he could be a pest for opposing teams.
Is this a gamble? Absolutely. But the Hawks are no stranger to drafting extremely young players with massive upside (see: Trae Young).
Pick #46: Keyontae Johnson, F, Kansas State
Johnson is entering the NBA Draft after his senior season at Kansas State. He used that time to polish his game and let teams know exactly what they’re getting if they draft him.
A catch-and-shoot threat that shot over 40 percent from deep, Johnson can also spot up if he’s given the chance to move and try and create his own spot. He’s also a willing and versatile defender that loves to harrass opposing ball-handlers. While the ceiling is immediately present, the floor isn’t too low here. If the Hawks pass up on a true three-and-D wing with their first pick, Johnson slots in late.
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Hawks draft profile
Here is TGH’s 2023 NBA Draft Profile for the Atlanta Hawks, including team needs, potential targets and a list of all picks.