Atlanta Hawks: Complete 2017 offseason grades
Atlanta Hawks select John Collins with 19th overall pick
Previous Team: Wake Forest (college)
2016-17 Statistics: 19.2 PPG, 9.8 RPG, 1.6 BPG
It didn’t take long for John Collins to make a strong impression.
During his stint in Las Vegas at NBA Summer League, Collins established himself as one of the most exciting players from the 2017 NBA Draft class, as he was able to use his athleticism to collect numerous rebounds and play well above the rim.
Each time he stepped onto the floor, Collins managed to make his mark, especially as he elevated towards the rim.
The New Orleans duo of Cheick Diallo and Keith Benson found out first hand, as they tried to challenge Collins as he attacked the basket on a pick-and-roll. The results were immediately plastered all over the internet.
https://twitter.com/BleacherReport/status/885254472598929408
Even more impressive than his aerial displays was his remarkable efficiency.
The 6’10” forward was named to the 2017 NBA Summer League First Team after posting 15.4 points and 9.2 rebounds per game while shooting 59.3 percent from the field — the highest percentage among players who attempted 50 or more shots during the tournament.
Here's an up-to-date look at the most efficient offensive players at the Las Vegas #NBASummer League to this point. pic.twitter.com/sdRofF5pzY
— Synergy Basketball (@SynergySST) July 10, 2017
The early returns on Collins have been impressive and with the absence of Paul Millsap, Atlanta has a pressing need for him to log plenty of minutes during his rookie season.
Collins appears ready for the task.
Grade: A-