Atlanta Hawks: 2018-19 NBA season preview

Best-case scenario

There isn’t much hope of competing for a spot in the playoffs in the upcoming year. What Hawks fans can look forward to, though, is the breaking out of their young and talented core.

Trae Young brings with him excitement that Hawks fans have sorely missed since the magical 60-win season or since the exhilarating dunks of the high flying Josh Smith. Best case, we see him turn into the electric scorer the Hawks envisioned.

Speaking of Smith, Collins reminds many people of Josh Smith during his time in Atlanta. They play with a similar bounce and aggression that is such a good trait for a player at that forward position. It would be a huge win for the Hawks if Collins turn into an improved version of Smith

Another season of learning and growing for the young core will come with another high lottery draft pick in the 2019 draft. Strong showings from the 2018 rookies will go a long way to inspire optimism as well.

Worst-case scenario

Career altering injuries. The worst possible scenario for this team is for one of its young players to go down with something like a torn Achilles that can change the trajectory or a career. Just ask Brandon Jennings.

You also have to be careful, though, with how much freedom you give the rookies. They should certainly be on a very long leash but coach Pierce must make sure they do not develop bad habits or find their confidence shaken due to struggles.

If the team really comes together and they start winning games, that also could stall some of the team progress. A finish around the 9-12 seeds could significantly reduce the value of draft night for Atlanta.

The good thing about all of this is that most of it is within the team’s control aside from injuries. Don’t overuse the youngsters but still give them meaningful time to grow and learn. Balance is the key.