The Atlanta Hawks' acquisition of Devin Carter has generated a lot of buzz among fans, and for good reason. While the team may have been quiet on the surface, their moves have been strategic and calculated, ensuring financial flexibility and competitiveness now and in the future. One such move that has gone under the radar is the addition of Carter and a second-round pick from the Sacramento Kings.
Carter, a third-year guard, was selected 13th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft. While the pick was initially seen as a solid move for the Kings, things haven't quite worked out as planned. With the recent selection of Darius Acuff Jr., Carter found himself on the outside looking in, and his playing time suffered as a result. However, when given the opportunity, Carter has shown that he can make an impact, particularly in the final two months of the past season.
One of the most striking aspects of Carter's game is his athleticism and ability to get to the rim. His sturdy upper body gives him an advantage when attacking smaller opponents or even stronger defenders. This physicality is a rare trait for a guard, and it's something that the Hawks could use off the bench. The closest player to Carter in this regard is Dyson Daniels, who has been praised by Quin Snyder for his ability to get two feet in the paint. If Carter can replicate this, he could be a valuable asset for the team.
However, Carter's 3-point shooting has been a concern. Through two seasons, he's shot a combined 27.4% from the 3-point line, and his shooting percentage dropped to 26.3% last season. This is a significant issue for a team that loves to shoot 3s, and it's something that Carter will need to address. The good news is that he showed a bit more consistency down the stretch of last season, and the hope is that he can build on that momentum this upcoming season. To maximize his chances of success, Carter will need to be surrounded by shooters when he's on the floor.
Carter's athleticism and frame aren't just beneficial on offense; they also translate to defense. For a guard, he's an above-average rebounder, which shows that he's willing to do the dirty work. His energy on the defensive end could be exactly what the Hawks need off the bench. However, Carter isn't seen as a primary ball handler, so pairing him with a player like CJ McCollum or Kington Flemings would be key. While he may have a long way to go in terms of playing time, if Carter can bring the energy he showed at the end of last season, things could look bright for him.
In the end, the Hawks' move to acquire Carter is a low-risk, high-reward proposition. If things don't work out, they can always say that it was a calculated decision to see if he could pan out on the team. Personally, I think that Carter has the potential to be a valuable asset for the Hawks, and I'm excited to see how he develops this upcoming season. What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential for Carter to fill a specific role on the team, and the opportunity for the Hawks to add a player with a unique skill set. From my perspective, this move is a smart and strategic addition to the team, and I'm eager to see how it plays out.
