NBA Mock Draft 7.0: Is LaMelo Ball destined to join the New York Knicks?

On paper, it seems like the Atlanta Hawks’ post-rebuild roster is taking shape. They have Trae Young as the high-volume, hot-shooting engine of offensive creation. They have Clint Capela as the rim protector and vertical spacer, with John Collins as another pick-and-roll threat who is hopefully expanding his game. On the wings, they have shooters (Kevin Huerter) and 3-and-D options (Cam Reddish and DeAndre Hunter). The only problem is that both the 3-and-D for Reddish and Hunter is still at least somewhat hypothetical — combined, they shot 34.4 percent on 3s and are still figuring out how to use their tools on defense.

Using a third lottery pick in two years on players in the same role may seem like waving a white flag but Vassell is the best 3-and-D prospect in this class and probably has a better chance than Hunter or Reddish of offering more on offense. He’s a much more advanced shooter off movement than either of them and his potential as a secondary creator is higher as well, something that will be increasingly important as the Hawks look to round out skill depth around Trae Young. Vassell might not be a future All-Star but he’s exactly the kind of piece that can help Atlanta shift towards playoff competitiveness.

Learn more about Devin Vassell with our full scouting report.