5 most disappointing teams of the 2022-23 NBA season

4 of 5

ATLANTA, GA – MARCH 03: Trae Young #11 of the Atlanta Hawks looks on during the second half against the Portland Trail Blazers at State Farm Arena on March 3, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images) /

2. Atlanta Hawks

Atlanta made a title-contending move this offseason, trading three first round picks to San Antonio to acquire All-Star guard Dejounte Murray. It was a risky move, pairing two-high volume guards together, with one being an absolute liability defensively.

It’s been another rocky season for Trae Young, a season full of drama and inability to adapt to playing with his new teammate Murray.

“Trae’s insecurities have been shown through a magnifying glass this season”, said Hozayfa Omer, an analyst of the team. “His refusal to play off ball defense and overall lack of leadership qualities is stunting the progression and development in one of the most exciting and prolific eras in Atlanta basketball. His only growth has been shown in his marginal improvement to play perimeter defense.”

Defense is still a major issue for Young, a key facet of his game holding him back from becoming an elite superstar in our game. While Young’s drama along coaching changes has hurt the team, John Collins has been nothing short of abysmal this season. Collins is known for his ability to stretch the floor as a big, shooting 3s at a high clip. He’s shot over 36 percent or higher from 3 in his last three seasons before this year. This year Collins shot 29 percent from 3, a historic career low. With Collins unable to shoot from the perimeter, his value is practically devoid as a stretch big.

With another first round exit likely on the table for Atlanta, it’s time for GM Landry Fields to examine this team with a closer eye this offseason. Anything should be on table, including moving Trae Young. Currently, this is a middle-of-road Eastern Conference team, and devoid of assets for the next few years after acquiring Murray. A big offseason is looming for Atlanta. All eyes are on Landry Fields and the front office, who will do everything they can to lift this team out of mediocrity.

Home/NBA