After months of speculations, the Atlanta Hawks made Zaccharie Risacher the No. 1 pick of the 2024 NBA Draft. Risacher, Alexandre Sarr and Donovan Clingan were the names assigned to the team in various mock drafts. In the end, the Hawks went with the upside of the lanky 6-foot-9 forward, who scouts have likened to the Denver Nuggets’ Michael Porter Jr.
The former JL Bourg star is one of the most promising young talents in Europe. He has eye-popping potential with his length, mobility and scoring efficiency.
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Some Atlanta Hawks fans on social media, however, are disgruntled with the team’s decision to get Zaccharie Risacher:
“It’s like the Hawks want to lose again next year already”
One fan did not hold back:
“Terrible pick”
Another fan ripped Atlanta’s choice:
“Harrison Barnes comp first overall”
@078Yasser mocked the Hawks’ decision:
“Not taking Sarr is HILARIOUS”
The problem with taking Alexandre Sarr No. 1 was he refused to work out with the Atlanta Hawks. He didn’t explain why but he did spend time with other teams, most noticeably the Washington Wizards who will pick No. 2. The Frenchman admitted that he still wanted to be the first to be called among the prospects but Atlanta wouldn’t oblige him.
It’s not uncommon for fans to lambast their teams on social media on draft day. Consensus choices rarely happen from a passionate fan base that wants the team to succeed. If Zaccharie Risacher fulfills his eye-popping potential, these negative reactions will not age well.
The Atlanta Hawks have a logjam at small forward following Zaccharie Risacher’s drafting
Zaccharie Risacher might eventually be the Atlanta Hawks’ power forward of the future, but he is a small forward next season. He will be going into training camp competing against De’Andre Hunter and Jalen Johnson. As it stands, the Hawks have a logjam at the said position.
The Hawks are reportedly making every player on the roster available in trade talks except Johnson. If that’s the case, Hunter could be on the move to allow Risacher the opportunity to flourish. Most are expecting Atlanta to make bold moves in the offseason.
The Hawks will have to decide on the future of Trae Young and Dejounte Murray. One or both could be gone when training camp opens in September.
While there are still uncertainties, it’s clear that the Hawks will be banking on Zaccharie Risacher’s development to compete. The team will be in a good spot if he fulfills his potential. If not, the fans who bashed them on social media for getting the former JL Bourg star will be proven right.
Edited by Michael Macasero
