The Atlanta Hawks received the number 1 draft pick in the 2024 NBA Draft Lottery and it has sent shockwaves throughout the NBA world. This lottery has granted them access to potentially changing the franchise. The Hawks could sign 7-foot-1 French prodigy Alex Sarr. If they pick Alex Sarr, he alongside Trae Young will be a delight to watch.
However, in a recent ‘Nightcap’ episode, Shannon Sharpe spoke about potential problems in Atlanta. Sharpe said he likes the city, but he might not live in Atlanta. He said, “I love Atlanta. But I wouldn’t want to play in Atlanta because too much distraction, plus I am close to home.” Comments by Sharpe have sparked debate about the allure of Atlanta and its potential impact on a young player’s focus. Is Atlanta’s vibrant nightlife and bustling entertainment scene truly a detriment to a young athlete’s career, or is Sharpe simply overstating the city’s influence?
There is no denying that Atlanta has an amazing culture and music background. Atlanta is also known as the New York of the South. The city also boasts a great sports culture. Atlanta fans cheer the loudest for the Hawks at State Farm Arena. It provides Athletes with a great atmosphere to perform well. Despite having a good atmosphere and culture, why does negativity surround Atlanta? The answer is the City’s nightlife, which may serve as a distraction for the young players.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Alex Sarr is in for the Hawks, and Is Trae Young going out?
Sharpe’s comments about the distractions add another layer to the narrative. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski has suggested that Trae Young might be on the move this summer. This news also suggests that the Hawks might look forward to building their team around Sarr.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The possibility of the Hawks making Trae Young available in trade talks this offseason are “very real,” per @wojespn.
Atlanta appears moving in the direction of a rebuild after securing the No. 1 overall pick. pic.twitter.com/jy1LszeaFA
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) May 13, 2024
This news is a surprise for everyone, as Trae Young led the Hawks to the 10th seed this year. Young has been part of the Hawks since the 2018-19 season. He averages 25.5 points per match for the Hawks. He also averages 3.6 rebounds and 9.5 assists per game for the Hawks. Young is the leader of the Hawks. This season, the Hawks’ performance wasn’t remarkable owing to a Young’s injury that kept him out for 23 games.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The trade news implies that Sarr might be a central figure in the Hawks’ new era, learning the ropes alongside other high-potential rookies. This season Sarr averaged 9.7 points, 0.9 assists, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game. This opportunity will be great for Sarr being in epicenter and learning along the way.
Ultimately, the draft day will tell whether the Hawks will draft Sarr or not despite Sharpe’s warning about the allure of the city. With the exciting culture and potential to be the face of the Hawks, Atlanta could be a very attractive destination for Alex Sarr.