The Atlanta Hawks, Charlotte Hornets and Chicago Bulls enter the new NBA season facing very different but equally pressing issues, according to an analysis by ESPN’s Zach Kram.
Atlanta Counts on Jalen Johnson’s Next Step
The Hawks are banking on forward Jalen Johnson staying healthy after injuries limited him to 36 games last season. When available, the 22-year-old joined Nikola Jokić, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Domantas Sabonis as the league’s only players to average at least 10 rebounds and five assists. Over the past four seasons, Joel Embiid is the only other player to post those numbers. Atlanta believes similar production over a full schedule could elevate the club’s ceiling.
LaMelo Ball’s Record Usage in Charlotte
LaMelo Ball led the NBA with a 35.9 percent usage rate last year—the 23rd-highest single-season mark in league history. Historically, that workload translates to All-NBA seasons; 19 of the 22 players ahead of him reached that honor. Ball’s player efficiency rating, however, was the lowest ever recorded by anyone with at least a 35 percent usage rate. Combined with a history of injuries, the numbers have sparked debate over whether Ball remains a true franchise cornerstone or simply a high-volume guard.
Bulls Still Squarely in the Middle
Since acquiring DeMar DeRozan, Lonzo Ball and Alex Caruso four years ago, the Bulls have posted a perfectly even 164-164 record. With those names and Zach LaVine now elsewhere, Chicago’s front office declined to stockpile draft picks in trade talks, opting instead for veteran players. The approach points to another season near the .500 mark with no clear rebuilding plan.
The three franchises open training camp later this month looking to turn questions into answers before regular-season play begins.
Source: Hoops Wire
