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Atlanta Hawks: 5 options for pick No. 31 in the 2017 NBA Draft

By Brendan Galella

Nov 17, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Southern Methodist Mustangs forward Semi Ojeleye (33) puts up a shot during the second half against the Pittsburgh Panthers at Madison Square Garden. Southern Methodist won, 76-67. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 17, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Southern Methodist Mustangs forward Semi Ojeleye (33) puts up a shot during the second half against the Pittsburgh Panthers at Madison Square Garden. Southern Methodist won, 76-67. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 1, 2017; Glendale, AZ, USA; Oregon Ducks forward Jordan Bell (1) blocks the shot of North Carolina Tar Heels guard Joel Berry II (2) in the second half in the semifinals of the 2017 NCAA Men’s Final Four at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 1, 2017; Glendale, AZ, USA; Oregon Ducks forward Jordan Bell (1) blocks the shot of North Carolina Tar Heels guard Joel Berry II (2) in the second half in the semifinals of the 2017 NCAA Men’s Final Four at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Jordan Bell, PF, Oregon

2016-17 statistics: 11 PPG, 8.7 RPG, 2.3 BPG

While Jordan Bell is listed as a power forward, the intrigue from the Atlanta Hawks stems from his ability to anchor the interior of the defense, a role currently held by Dwight Howard.

As the 31-year-old Howard enters the second year of a three-year, $70.5 million contract, Atlanta has publicly stated there is a place for him on the roster, but he could be on the move if the team enters rebuilding mode this summer.

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Howard likely won’t command much in the trade market, but if he is moved, another strong presence at the rim would be a necessity. Atlanta finished fourth in defensive efficiency this season and the addition of Bell in the second round would be a perfect option to help maintain its elite status shutting down opponents.

The 6’9″ forward dominated the NCAA Tournament, leading Oregon to its first Final Four appearance since 1939 as an exceptional rebounder and shot blocker. His finest performance came against Kansas at the Elite Eight, as he totaled 11 points, 13 rebounds, eight blocks and four assists.

In each game during the tournament, Bell pulled down 12 or more rebounds, as he posted averages of 13.2 rebounds and 3.0 blocks per game during the Ducks’ run to the NCAA title game.

The Hawks could immediately use him as a pick-and-roll partner for guard Dennis Schroder, as his speed and athleticism enabled him to shoot 63.6 percent from the field.

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