After a supremely disappointing 2021 – 22 season, the Atlanta Hawks are looking to reload in the offseason. One way they did so is in the draft: nabbing AJ Griffin with the 16th overall pick in the 2022 NBA draft. With the Duke wing on their squad, they are hoping they can contend for a spot in the playoffs and beyond.
Speaking to reporters after he was selected, AJ Griffin expressed his desire to play with Trae Young and the Hawks. The Duke standout talked about how it was “surreal” to be able to play with someone he looked up to in Young. (via ClutchPoints' Sam DiGiovanni)
“Grateful to be in the right spot. I’m ready to get to work. Play with guys like Trae – play with someone I looked up to…you know watching him play through the years it’s just a surreal feeling.”
Griffin addresses one of the Hawks' concerns in the offseason: wing depth. Griffin has arguably the best shooting touch from deep out of the entire draft class. If he develops a more fluid offensive game and cleans up his defensive issues, he could be an important part of the team's future next year.
The Hawks in general are in a state of flux this offseason. Rumors surrounding their key players have swirled over the last few weeks. There's plenty of time for their roster to change. Will they ever trade John Collins? Or will the high-flying forward stay put in Atlanta? Are there any mores players headed out after this draft?