NBA Draft 2017: 5 targets for the Atlanta Hawks

By John Buhler | Jun 20, 2017

Mar 26, 2017; Memphis, TN, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward Justin Jackson (44) drives against Kentucky Wildcats guard Malik Monk (5) in the second half during the finals of the South Regional of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mar 10, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Harry Giles (1) reacts during the second half of an ACC Conference Tournament game against the North Carolina Tar Heels at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

Harry Giles

Power Forward, Duke Blue Devils

Harry Giles was considered to be the very best collegiate prospect of the 2016 high school class. He committed to Duke University in 2015, but would have a miserable one year playing in the ACC at Durham. Giles played in just 26 games, averaging 3.9 points, 3.8 rebounds and 0.7 blocks per game for the Duke Blue Devils.

That being said, Giles has the potential to be one of the biggest sleepers in the 2017 NBA Draft. Perhaps an injury plagued year of college ball was a one-time thing for the former college standout? Then again, maybe bolting to the NBA three years early is the best way to cover up his lack of high-end playing ability?

Atlanta may be in reload mode, but can take a chance on a former highly touted high school prospect in Giles. The Hawks already have a starting center in Dwight Howard, but who knows how long he’ll stick for his hometown team. Add in that big man Mike Muscala is hitting restricted free agency and Atlanta could be in need for young, frontcourt depth.

Hawks head coach Mike Budenholzer preaches a defense-first basketball culture. That would seem to translate well to Giles’ skill set as a ball player. He could absolutely bust, but having the former No. 1 high school recruit falling to Atlanta at No. 19 could be a steal if he bounces back from his injuries.

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