The Hawks have the No. 19 overall pick of the first round in Thursday’s NBA Draft. General manager Travis Schlenk said the Hawks are looking at nine players the team figures to be available with the selection.
Schlenk declined to identify the specific players but has said the Hawks will draft the best player available with an emphasis on character, length and athleticism.
Here are five players that could be in the mix:
Justin Jackson, SF, North Carolina
Jackson averaged 18.4 points, 4.7 rebounds and 2.8 assists as a junior on the Tar Heels national championship team. He is 6-foot-8 with a 6-11 wing span measured at the NBA Draft Combine in May. The ACC Player of the Year is seasoned after three collegiate campaigns. Past Hawks regimes have favored players with experience. Jackson made improvements in his defense and 3-point shooting after another season.
Jarrett Allen, C, Texas
Allen averaged 13.4 points and 8.4 rebounds as a freshman for the Long Horns. He measured 6-9 but with a 7-5 wing span at the combine. He was Big 12 All-Rookie and All-Conference Third Team. Allen showed an ability in the pick-and-roll game, an asset in the NBA. Allen shows potential as a mid-range shooter. He won’t pose a threat at the 3-point line but can be an effective rim runner.
Ike Anigbogu, C, UCLA
Anigbogu would be a project as he averaged only 4.7 points, 4.0 rebounds and 1.2 blocks as a reserve freshman for the Bruins. He measured 6-10 with a 7-6 wingspan at the combine. While offensively there is much work to be done, Anigbogu could have a more immediate defensive impact as a rim protector and in the pick-and-roll game because of his quickness and length.
OG Anunoby, SF, Indiana
Anunoby averaged 11.1 points and 5.4 rebounds as a sophomore for the Hoosiers before suffering a knee injury. He is another player with length, he measured 6-8 but with a 7-2 wingspan at the combine and could project as a combo forward. Anunoby will need to work on his offensive game but many believe him to be a difference maker defensively at the NBA level with a combination of length, strength and athleticism.
Justin Patton, C, Creighton
Patton averaged 12.9 points and 6.1 rebounds as a freshman for the Blue Jays. He is another project player but with a big upside due to his 7-0 frame and 7-3 wingspan. He was one of college basketball’s most efficient shooters last season and he can protect the rim. He will need to add weight to his 225-pound frame. If the Hawks are willing to wait on a player who will need time to develop, Patton could be special.
