The Atlanta Hawks' acquisition of Devin Carter from the Sacramento Kings is a move that could pay dividends, especially if the team can harness his unique skill set and potential. While Carter's name might not be a household name, his physical attributes and game-changing abilities could be just what the Hawks need to bolster their bench and overall competitiveness.
The Athletic Rim Runner
One of the most striking aspects of Carter's game is his athleticism and ability to get to the rim. His sturdy upper body and physicality set him apart from many other guards, allowing him to attack the basket with confidence against smaller opponents and even stronger defenders. This physicality is a rare quality at the guard position and could be a game-changer for the Hawks' bench unit.
Comparing Carter to Dyson Daniels, who is also known for his rim-running ability, highlights the potential for Carter to be a valuable contributor off the bench. Quin Snyder's praise for Daniels' ability to get two feet in the paint suggests that Carter could be a similar asset if he can maintain his physicality and rim-running prowess.
The 3-Point Struggle
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, with a 26.3% average this past season. This is a significant area for improvement, especially on a Hawks team that values 3-point shooting. The team's love for long-range shooting means that Carter will need to work on his 3-point accuracy to become a more well-rounded player.
The good news is that Carter showed signs of improved consistency down the stretch of the last season. The hope is that he can build on this progress and become a more reliable 3-point threat. Surrounding him with skilled shooters when he's on the floor could be the key to unlocking his potential in this area.
Defensive Energy and Rebounding
Carter's defensive energy and rebounding ability are also notable strengths. For a guard, he rebounds better than most, which demonstrates his willingness to do the dirty work and contribute on the glass. This energy and physicality on the defensive end could be a game-changer for the Hawks' bench, providing a much-needed boost in energy and effort.
The Low-Risk, High-Reward Move
The Hawks' decision to acquire Carter is a low-risk, high-reward move. With a limited impact on their salary cap, the team can afford to experiment and see if Carter can pan out. If he brings the energy and impact he showed at the end of the last season, the Hawks could be onto something special. However, if things don't work out, the team can always re-evaluate and make adjustments without incurring significant financial risk.
In conclusion, Devin Carter's athleticism, rim-running ability, and defensive energy make him a player with immense potential. While his 3-point shooting needs improvement, the Hawks' acquisition of Carter is a strategic move that could pay dividends if he can contribute to the team's success and energy off the bench.
