Power ranking the NBA coaching vacancies

3. Atlanta Hawks

The Hawks provide a new coach with an opportunity to paint on an almost entirely blank canvas. Atlanta enters this offseason with a projected $29 million and change in cap space. They’re going to need to spend every penny wisely.

To say the current roster is bare would be a pretty big understatement. Outside of last year’s first round pick John Collins there isn’t a ton there. Taurean Prince can be a nice role player and the demise of Kent Bazemore has been slightly exaggerated. Other than that trio, you’re probably looking to upgrade every spot on the roster.

The Hawks will be able to add a projected high lottery pick this summer. They won’t feel constrained to avoid making a selection at any position. Their draft philosophy should, and will be to pick the best player available.

Some coaches might be intimidated by the long road ahead in Atlanta, but some coaches will see it as a unique opportunity. This is a roster that can be entirely molded and shaped by the new regime. There won’t be very many short-term expectations either. Taking the Hawks job will be a good job security move for whoever ends up being their next head coach. He’s going to get at least two seasons to show what he can do on the sideline.