Atlanta Hawks: 5 options for pick No. 8 in 2019 NBA Draft

2. Jaxson Hayes

Earlier I mentioned the Hawks looking for a big man in the draft in the form of Sekou Doumbouya from France. If they Hawks are wanting to use pick No. 8 on a big, but want a tried and true prospect, they could turn to Jaxson Hayes instead.

After Zion Williamson, Hayes could be argued to be the second-best big of the 2019 NBA Draft class. He’s super athletic and has a 7’4″ wingspan to go along with his 6’11”, 220-pound frame. He’s already projected to be one of the best rim protectors of the draft class as well.

Hayes should be very attainable if the Hawks don’t like their chances of selecting a solid wing player at No. 8. Most drafts have Hayes as a top-12 player coming out of Texas, either at No. 9 to the Washington Wizards or even the Minnesota Timberwolves at No. 11.

The Hawks need a strong defensive presence to go along with their high-flying offense. This pick would take pressure off John Collins to be the main defender. Hayes could step in right away on the team as well if they decide not to bring back Dewayne Dedmon. The Hawks need an enforcer on the boards and this could be the best fit for them at No. 8.