Hawks’ Rookie Shines in Overtime Win vs. Heat

With just a few simple moves, the Atlanta Hawks were named one of the winners of the offseason. And seemed to have primed themselves for a jump in the Eastern Conference in the process.

It started with a draft-night deal in which the Hawks traded back several spots, picking up the Pelicans’ unprotected 2026 first-rounder in doing so.

They were still able to nab forward Asa Newell at pick No. 23 — a player they were long linked to throughout the draft process — as well as one of this season’s most valuable selections. 

The Hawks then traded for stretch-big Kristaps Porzingis, and signed a talented guard in Nickeil Alexander-Walker to complete the offseason. All in all, it seems on paper that they’ve built a real contender in the east, led by Trae Young, Jalen Johnson, Dyson Daniels and former No. 1 pick Zaccharie Risacher.

In grabbing a few proven players and a sparkling draft pick, Atlanta’s drafting of Newell fell somewhat under the radar. But it should’t be forgotten that they also landed a project forward who could yield strong results sooner than later.

That was especially the case in the team’s preseason win over the Heat on Monday night, where Newell went for 19 points, eight rebounds, two assists, two steals and two blocks.