NBA Analyst: Hawks Need a Big Breakout from No. 1 Pick Zaccharie Risacher

The Atlanta Hawks are a professional basketball team based in Atlanta, United States. The Hawks play in the Southeast Division of the Eastern Conference of the NBA. The team plays its games at State Farm Arena.

In this NBA season, the Atlanta Hawks are one of the most exciting teams. Although they might not win the championship or even reach the regional finals, they can still prove to be a serious threat in the playoffs. They've defeated Boston, the Knicks twice, the Cavaliers twice, and more. However, at other times, they appear to be a youthful, inexperienced team that is still developing and learning how to play as a unit. Although there is great hope for their future, there are going to be setbacks.

No.1 Zaccharie Risacher

Zaccharie Risacher, the 2024 No. 1 choice, is one of the factors contributing to the excitement. With the first pick in the draft, the Hawks selected Risacher with the hopes that he would play a key role in their future success.

He has spent the majority of the season playing excellent defence. His current shooting percentages are 28% from three and 40% from the field. Although his three-point shooting is a bit surprising, given that he was praised for his shooting ability as a prospect, there is a lot of hope that he can improve significantly in the future.

Season Improvements

As a full-time player for the Atlanta Hawks, the No.1 overall choice of the 2024 NBA is having a respectable rookie season, scoring 10.8 points and 3.4 rebounds in 23.7 minutes. Considering Risacher’s draft position, we weren’t anticipating great things from this season. As long as the teenager can maintain his improved shot efficiency, it’s okay to just appear like a competent role player for the time being.

The Hawks will need Risacher to start his breakthrough as soon as possible if they hope to regain their place in the Eastern playoffs.

The truth is that considering his restricted offensive role with players like Trae Young, Jalen Johnson, De'Andre Hunter, and others, we're more likely to witness a second-year jump from the 6'8" wing than significant in-season progress.

Future Season’s Progress

The Hawks would really like to make the playoffs this year. Their young players’ growth comes first, and there will be ups and downs along the way. Although his talents cannot be ignored, Risacher is more likely to make significant progress next season than to show a surprise improvement this one.

He shines at many small tasks on the floor and is a competent defender. Risacher will be a better player when everything else falls into place.