The Atlanta Hawks lucked into winning the first overall pick in the 2024 draft, and used it to select Zaccharie Risacher. They viewed adding Risacher as a bonus for their young core and a cost-effective blue-chip piece.
Unfortunately, things have not worked out for both the Hawks and Risacher. He has not developed into the all-around wing they envisioned. His points per game has gone down, his three-point shooting has remained the same, and he disappears from games far too often.
Risacher wasn’t even selected to participate in the Rising Stars challenge. The last time a healthy first overall pick didn’t make the game was Markelle Fultz. That is not company you want to be in if you are Risacher. Given his underwhelming play over his first two seasons, Atlanta’s decision regarding his future should be clear, especially with the trade deadline next week.
The Hawks should move on from Risacher if the right deal is out there
Whether it’s for Giannis Antetokounmpo, Anthony Davis, or any other player that presents a meaningful upgrade, Atlanta should not hesitate to involve Risacher. They reportedly wanted to hold on to him during their trade discussions with Dallas for Davis, but that should not be the case.
The Hawks have the depth. Jalen Johnson is obviously spearheading that unit, but Atlanta has enough versatility with Dyson Daniels, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Luke Kennard, and Corey Kispert to withstand the loss of Risacher.
They essentially all do the same thing Risacher does: shoot and defend. They don’t need more redundancy. Using Risacher to get a frontcourt upgrade next to Johnson and Onyeka Okongwu or a playmaking guard should be their top priority.
Risacher’s impact on the team is also minimal. Atlanta has a -0.3 net rating with him on the court, which is not horrible, but it is also not great. Even when he’s paired with Johnson, the net rating only jumps to +0.8.
Atlanta has been at the center of trade rumors, and already moved on from Trae Young. With the deadline approaching, we will see how aggressive they end up being, but even if they wait until the offseason to make a move, they should include Risacher in their offers. Up to now, they have not shown a true willingness to do so, but if his streak of uninspiring play continues over the next couple months, they would be wise to change their tune.