**Hawks' No. 1 Pick Faces Rough NBA Start**

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Post on Oct 24, 2024

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Hawks' No. 1 Pick Faces Rough NBA Start

The Atlanta Hawks, fresh off a surprising run to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021, entered the 2022 NBA Draft with hopes of adding another piece to their championship puzzle. With the No. 1 overall pick, they selected Jabari Smith Jr., a highly touted prospect from Auburn University. However, the young star's transition to the NBA has been a bumpy one, raising questions about his immediate impact on the Hawks' title aspirations.

Struggling to Find His Footing

Smith's early struggles can be attributed to a few factors. First, he's playing in a new, more complex system under head coach Nate McMillan. The Hawks' offense relies heavily on ball movement and high-screen actions, a stark contrast to the more free-flowing style Smith played at Auburn.

Second, Smith is facing elite competition at the NBA level, which has exposed some areas where he needs to improve. He's not yet as strong as he needs to be to consistently finish at the rim against bigger defenders, and his jump shot hasn't been as consistent as hoped.

A Long-Term Investment

Despite the initial bumps in the road, the Hawks remain confident in Smith's potential. They see him as a future cornerstone of the franchise, possessing a unique blend of size, shooting ability, and defensive versatility. He's shown flashes of brilliance, displaying his ability to score efficiently from mid-range and his defensive instincts.

The Hawks are willing to be patient as Smith adjusts to the NBA game. They've already seen his impact on the defensive end, where his long arms and athleticism make him a threat to disrupt opponents' shots.

The Bigger Picture

It's crucial to remember that Smith is still only 19 years old. He's entering a league where even seasoned veterans struggle to consistently adapt. The Hawks' front office knows this and is taking a long-term view on Smith's development.

While the Hawks are aiming for immediate success, they understand that Smith's true impact may not be seen for a few years. He's got all the tools to become a star in this league, and the Hawks are committed to helping him reach his full potential.

Moving Forward

As Smith gains more experience and confidence, he's likely to see his role expand within the Hawks' offense. His ability to stretch the floor and create scoring opportunities for teammates will be invaluable as the season progresses.

While his start may not have been ideal, it's still too early to write Smith off. His talent is undeniable, and with continued hard work and dedication, he has the potential to become a key player for the Hawks' future.