Reason #3: Starting Him Shows A Clear Direction

For a team that is in the middle of a rebuild, having a definite plan is key. Any successful team that has completed a rebuild did it by knowing how they wanted the team to be constructed and acquiring players that fit the plan.

By drafting Trae Young (and to a lesser extent Kevin Huerter), it’s clear that the Hawks want to emulate the Golden State Warriors. Young would play the role of Stephen Curry, a great perimeter shooter that can also create opportunities for others. The Warriors have used Curry in many different ways over his career, especially since Steve Kerr took over as head coach. Curry can play as a main facilitator, an isolation player, and even finding open shots coming off of screens and off-ball movement.

Starting Young, especially at this stage in his career, can help him develop the traits to make him a multidimensional player. Trae Young struggled with shot selection as a college player, and getting game time can help him unlearn bad habits. He can find where he feels most comfortable on the floor, and also understand where his teammates feel comfortable.

Trae Young has the potential to be a great player, and if the Atlanta Hawks want to help make that potential a reality, they should start him at point guard as soon as possible.