The Atlanta Hawks have epitomized mediocrity in recent years, and following their latest game on Friday, February 24, resulting in a loss to the Toronto Raptors at home, they reached a symbolic milestone, holding a record of 750-750 over their last 1500 games.
With a 24-32 record, they sit in the 10th position in the Eastern Conference, placing them within the play-in range. However, their performance doesn't suggest a significant threat.
Adding to their challenges, star player Trae Young suffered a left-hand injury during the game against the Raptors, and an MRI revealed a tear of the radial collateral ligament (RCL) in the fifth finger of his left hand.
The 25-year-old point guard is scheduled for surgery on Tuesday, February 27, with a re-evaluation planned in four weeks.
Given their slim chances of making a substantial impact in the playoffs or even advancing past the play-in tournament, the Hawks might consider "tanking" for a draft pick this season.
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3 reasons Atlanta Hawks should 'tank' for the season after Trae Young's injury
1. Tough competition in the play-in range
There is formidable competition in the play-in range of the Eastern Conference, spanning from the 7th to the 10th seed.
This includes the seventh-place Miami Heat, the runners-up in the 2023 NBA Finals, who advanced to the championship round through the play-in last year.
The resurgent Orlando Magic, led by All-Star Paolo Banchero, also presents a challenge with their renewed strength as the eighth seed.
The Chicago Bulls, currently holding the ninth seed, also demonstrate a blend of experience and emerging talent. Veterans like DeMar DeRozan and promising young players like Coby White make the Bulls a team that should not be underestimated in the play-in competition.
2. Top-heavy Eastern Conference teams
If the Hawks advance past the play-in tournament, they will likely face the formidable 1st seed Boston Celtics, a team packed with stars such as Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Kristaps Porzingis, and Jrue Holiday.
While the Hawks might steal a game, winning the series seems unlikely. In such a scenario, missing out on a valuable draft pick may not be justified.
3. Rest of the East is stacking up draft capital
The other bottom teams in the Eastern Conference have significant draft capital.
The Brooklyn Nets, for instance, acquired a substantial haul through the trade involving Kevin Durant to the Suns.
Additionally, the Charlotte Hornets secured a first-round pick at the deadline, while the struggling Detroit Pistons are anticipated to receive a lottery pick following their lowly performance this season.
It appears impractical for the Hawks to strive for competitiveness this season, as doing so may only result in perennial mediocrity, with the team consistently being eliminated in the playoffs without the benefit of acquiring draft capital in return.
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