Zaccharie Risacher quietly making impact for Hawks

While much of the rookie spotlight shines on the Philadelphia 76ers' Jared McCain and the Los Angeles Lakers' Dalton Knecht, the Atlanta Hawks' Zaccharie Risacher, the first overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, might be flying under the radar.

Through 23 games, the French forward is averaging 11.7 points, 3.6 rebounds and 1.3 assists on 41 percent shooting, including 29 percent from beyond the arc. These figures reflect a modest start to his NBA career. However, a closer look at his recent performances reveals a player starting to find his footing.

Over his last five games, Risacher has averaged 13.4 points, 2.8 rebounds, and one block per game, while his shooting percentages have surged to 51 percent overall and an impressive 43.5 percent from three-point range. This improved production has come in just 21.2 minutes per contest, showcasing his efficiency in limited playing time.

During this stretch, Risacher’s 10 made three-pointers rank third among all rookies, and his 67 total points are tied for fourth. More importantly, his production has contributed to team success. Atlanta has won five consecutive games, climbing the standings and earning recognition as one of the league's rising teams.

The Hawks’ winning streak has cast a spotlight on Risacher's contributions on both ends of the court.

"He's doing all the things that I was hopeful that he'd do as he begins his NBA career," Atlanta head coach Quin Snyder said, via Jasmyn Wimbish of CBS Sports. "You've seen games where it shows statistically, where he has a big shooting night. You've seen games defensively, where he's had to take a tough matchup. That might be the biggest thing to me, is seeing his versatility defensively."

Standing 6-foot-9, Risacher is making a name for himself on the defensive end, delivering eye-catching and, at times, highlight-reel-worthy plays. Offensively, his consistency has been notable, even if not as flashy as other rookies. Currently, Risacher is on a career-best five-game streak of double-digit scoring. 

With primary offensive options such as Trae Young, Jalen Johnson and De'Andre Hunter leading the Hawks, Atlanta doesn’t require Risacher to shoulder a heavy scoring load—yet.

However, glimpses of his scoring potential have already surfaced. His 33-point explosion against the New York Knicks on Nov. 6 remains his career high and serves as evidence of his offensive upside.

For now, Risacher thrives as a complementary piece, excelling in off-ball movement and sharp cuts to the basket. His ability to read defenses and capitalize on opportunities has added a new dimension to Atlanta’s offense.

While Risacher may not be the flashiest rookie in the 2024 class, he is arguably one of the most impactful. His defense and adaptability have helped the Hawks remain competitive, and as his confidence grows, so too will his role within the team.

In the long run, Zaccharie Risacher’s all-around contributions could prove as valuable—if not more so—than the scoring exploits of his peers. For now, he continues to build a strong foundation in Atlanta, one quietly impactful performance at a time.