Atlanta Hawks: 3 takeaways from 2017-18 season opener

3. John Collins is ready for big minutes

John Collins was selected with the 19th pick of the 2017 NBA Draft with the expectation to slowly develop into a dynamic frontcourt player for the Atlanta Hawks.

Just 22 minutes into his NBA career, Collins has proven he is capable of providing an impact anytime he steps onto the floor.

In his professional debut, Collins totaled 14 points on 6-of-10 shooting from the field, five rebounds, two steals and an assist. Plus, his teammates discovered that if their path to the rim is well defended, they can simply toss the ball up and Collins will find a way to make a play.

Collins matched a team high with three offensive rebounds and his play helped the Hawks secure a 50-41 rebounding advantage on the night.

Along with the dominant rebounding effort, the presence of Collins was felt even further as the Hawks totaled 56 points in the paint on the night. Eight came from the rookie out of Wake Forest.

Veteran power forward Ersan Ilyasova, playing on a one-year contract, started the game and played 24 minutes, two more than Collins. The disparity in minutes may not last much longer following a showcase performance in the first career appearance for Collins.