Atlanta Hawks: 2016-17 Season Outlook

Three Key Storylines: 2. Schroder Running The Show

Howard isn’t the only replacement starter for the Hawks in 2016-17, as Dennis Schroder has some big shoes to fill as the team’s new floor general. At age 23, Atlanta will be entrusting its offense to a 2013 first round draft selection entering his fourth season.

Last season, Schroder flourished in his backup role, averaging 11.0 points, 4.4 assists and 2.6 rebounds in 20.3 minutes per game. He often played late in games, when Bud entrusted him with closing duties when he was on a roll and Teague couldn’t manage to get it going.

Unfortunately, Schroder still has a lot of growing up to do. He’s poised for a breakout season, but his turnover-proneness (2.3 per game), wacky finishes in the paint and lack of an outside shot (42.1 percent overall, 32.2 percent from long range) are all areas he clearly needs to improve upon.

Last year, Teague averaged 15.7 points, 5.9 assists and 2.8 turnovers in 28.5 minutes per game while posting .439/.400/.837 shooting splits. Atlanta will miss that kind of efficiency, especially when it comes to spreading the floor and taking care of the rock.

For the long-term, transitioning to Schroder was a necessary step toward the future. Teague turned 28 over the summer and it was starting to feel like he had hit his ceiling with this team, so the transition to Schroder felt inevitable.

For the 2016-17 season, however, this is a definite downgrade. How well Schroder accepts and conquers the upcoming growing pains could very well determine what kind of season Atlanta has.

Next: Storyline 3: Playoffs Or Tank?