NBA: Ranking every team’s best player in 2018-19

29. Atlanta Hawks: Kent Bazemore, SG/SF

As the Atlanta Hawks have gone through the teardown stage of their rebuild, every vestige of their recent success has been stripped away. They have overturned their entire roster, coaching staff and front office, embracing a new era. The only player on the team who has been on the roster since the 2015-16 season is Kent Bazemore.

The former undrafted free agent out of Old Dominion may be overpaid, but that does not mean he is not an effective player. Bazemore is the best defensive player on this team, able to guard 1-3 with a nose for snatching steals. While miscast as a primary option offensive, Bazemore can capably run the offense as a secondary creator.

Taurean Prince came on late last season and is growing into his role as the top offensive option with Dennis Schroder gone. It’s certainly possible that this time next year he is the clear best player on this team. John Collins was a breakout player in his rookie season and has plenty of upside, as does rookie top-five pick Trae Young. It’s also very possible the Hawks will move Bazemore, opening up the top role on the team.