Hawks Take Flight: How the 2024 Paris Olympics Propelled Atlanta to NBA Stardom
The 2024 Paris Summer Olympics have proven to be a pivotal moment for the Atlanta Hawks, spotlighting two key figures on their roster: Bogdan Bogdanovic and Dyson Daniels. While Bogdanovic’s impressive journey to a bronze medal is familiar to Hawks fans, Daniels, acquired from the New Orleans Pelicans in the Dejounte Murray trade, represents a fresh and intriguing addition to the team.
For Hawks enthusiasts, Bogdanovic’s contributions are well known. His performances on the international stage have consistently showcased his talent and versatility. However, Dyson Daniels, a relative newcomer, is a player whose Olympic performance has brought a new level of excitement and expectation. The Australian guard’s impact in Paris could serve as a foundational baseline for his upcoming season with the Hawks.
As noted by Bleacher Report’s Grant Hughes, Daniels is a player with considerable potential. At just 21 years old and standing 6’8″, Daniels possesses the physical attributes and skills that could make him a game-changer for the Hawks. Hughes highlights Daniels’ exceptional passing ability and defensive prowess, noting that his size allows him to create angles that others might miss. His potential to lead the league in steals, combined with his elite rebounding on both ends of the court, presents a tantalizing prospect for the Hawks.
However, Hughes also points out that Daniels’ shooting remains a significant area of concern. During his time with the Pelicans, his inconsistent jump shot was a notable drawback. Despite this, Hughes believes the Hawks are better positioned to address this issue and maximize Daniels’ strengths. As Hughes puts it, Daniels is the Hawks’ “best kept secret,” and if he can develop a reliable jumper, he could become a transformative player for the team.
The Olympics offered a glimpse into what Daniels might bring to the Hawks. Averaging 48.1% shooting from the field and 38.5% from beyond the arc during the games, Daniels demonstrated marked improvement in his shooting efficiency. This performance is especially encouraging given his struggles with shooting consistency in the NBA. For a player who averaged 5.8 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.4 steals during the 2023-24 season with the Pelicans, these Olympic numbers suggest significant potential for growth.
Daniels’ increased efficiency in Paris could be a game-changer for the Hawks. If he can maintain this improved shooting performance, it will address one of his major weaknesses and enhance his overall contribution to the team. The Hawks, who are keen to return to the postseason after a disappointing 2023-24 campaign, are hopeful that Daniels will be a key player in their efforts to get back into playoff contention.
Daniels is slated to play a crucial role with the Hawks in the 2024-25 season. While he narrowly missed out on being named the team’s “best new weapon” — an honor that went to rookie Zaccharie Risacher — his potential impact is undeniable. Bleacher Report’s Dan Favale notes that Daniels’ experience and defensive capabilities make him a compelling addition, especially given the Hawks’ current setup. The team appears ready to give him more playing time as a second-string point guard, which could be a significant opportunity for his development.
Despite the accolade going to Risacher, Daniels remains a player to watch. Both Daniels and Risacher are expected to make substantial contributions in their first seasons with the Hawks. The team’s strategy for the upcoming season hinges on integrating these new players effectively and leveraging their strengths to bolster the roster.
The significance of the Olympics for the Hawks extends beyond individual performances. The global stage provided a platform for Daniels to showcase his abilities, and the results are promising. With a more refined shooting game and continued development, Daniels could become a key figure in the Hawks’ plans for the future.
For the Hawks, the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics have highlighted the potential of their roster and set the stage for an exciting season ahead. As the team looks to rebound from their absence from the postseason, players like Dyson Daniels and Zaccharie Risacher represent the hope for a revitalized and competitive squad. The improvement in Daniels’ shooting and his defensive tenacity are encouraging signs, and if he can carry this momentum into the regular season, he will be a crucial asset for the Hawks.
The 2024 Paris Summer Olympics have been a watershed moment for the Atlanta Hawks, offering a glimpse into the potential of their new acquisitions. While Bogdanovic’s international success is a known quantity, Dyson Daniels’ performance in Paris provides a hopeful outlook for his impact on the team. With a key role in the upcoming season and a demonstrated ability to improve his shooting, Daniels could be a transformative player for the Hawks. As the team prepares for the 2024-25 season, the Olympic performances of their players have set the stage for what promises to be an exciting and pivotal year for the Atlanta Hawks.
