Who’s Been Naughty or Nice This Holiday Season?
As the holiday season unfolds, discussions arise around which NBA players are deemed “nice” or “naughty” this year. The Atlanta Hawks are in the spotlight as we examine their roster and performance in the current season.
Naughty or Nice: Atlanta Hawks Edition
Santa Claus has checked his lists and determined the standings of key players on the Hawks. Notable performances and disappointing trends highlight this season.
Players on the Nice List
- Nickeil Alexander-Walker: The Hawks acquired this player through a sign-and-trade deal. Worth approximately $60.4 million over four years, he has started 24 games this season. His offensive contributions include an average of 20.3 points with an impressive 59% true shooting percentage while playing 32.7 minutes per game.
- Vit Krejci: Once a two-way player, Krejci has transformed into a valuable asset for the Hawks. He boasts a shooting percentage of 48% from beyond the arc this season, significantly improving his offensive game.
- Asa Newell: Surprising many, Newell transitioned from a limited three-point shooter in college to an impressive 52% shooter in the NBA, demonstrating his rapid improvement.
- Jalen Johnson: Johnson has emerged as a standout player, averaging 23.8 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game with a 62% true shooting percentage. His performance places him among elite players like Nikola Jokic and Wilt Chamberlain.
Players on the Naughty List
- Luke Kennard: Despite being signed for $11 million, Kennard’s performance has been disappointing. He has been passive on offense, averaging only 7.1 three-point attempts per 100 possessions, which is notably low for his career.
- Zaccharie Risacher: Risacher’s limited minutes raise questions about the team’s confidence in him. Starting games without being on the court during crunch time counters his impactful defensive play.
- Mouhamed Gueye: Similar to Risacher, Gueye’s minute restrictions do not align with the team’s needs for paint protection, particularly in the absence of Kristaps Porzingis.
- Jalen Johnson’s Defense: Johnson’s defensive performance has declined significantly this season, contributing to the Hawks’ struggles on that end of the court.
Injury Woes
The Hawks have encountered a plague of injuries impacting their season. Key players such as Trae Young and Kristaps Porzingis have missed multiple games due to injuries. Other players, including Jacob Toppin and N’Faly Dante, have suffered season-ending injuries, creating challenges for the team’s depth.
Conclusion
The holiday season serves as a reminder of the ups and downs experienced by the Atlanta Hawks. With key performances from emerging players, the determination of who belongs on the nice or naughty list continues to evolve. Discussions are welcomed as fans reflect on the team’s journey this season.
