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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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Atlanta Hawks
Nov 18, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Southern Methodist Mustangs forward Semi Ojeleye (33) looks to shoot during the championship game of the 2016 2K Classic against the Michigan Wolverines at Madison Square Garden. Michigan won, 76-54. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Semi Ojeleye, SF/PF, SMU

2016-17 statistics: 19 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 1.5 APG

The biggest flaw exposed during the Atlanta Hawks’ playoff run this season was the inability to generate consistent offense outside of Paul Millsap or Dennis Schroder.

Tim Hardaway Jr. was inserted into the starting lineup throughout the postseason, but failed make the desired impact. In six contests, Hardaway Jr. averaged 12.8 points per game while shooting just 32.9 percent from the field and 26.2 percent from three-point range. He was outscored 155-77 by Bradley Beal in the team’s first round series.

For a team with multiple needs, including three-point shooting and perimeter defense, SMU forward Semi Ojeleye could be an ideal selection atop of the second round. Ojeleye enters the league with a 6’7″, 235-pound frame, projecting to blossom into a power forward in the NBA.

During his junior campaign at SMU, Ojeleye showcased his ability to shoot off the dribble or a catch, burst to the rim or operate in the post.

The 22-year-old led the Mustangs in scoring, averaging 18.2 points per game while converting 42.4 percent of his attempts from beyond the arc.

Next: 2017 NBA Mock Draft: Post-Lottery edition

For a Hawks team in desperate need of a scoring punch, Ojeleye could wind up as the steal of the draft if he slips past the first round.

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