A Quick Aside on:

Atlanta Hawks Forward John Collins

By: Michael A. Chase Jr.

6/16/21

            The Atlanta Hawks are currently tied 2-2 in their second-round playoff series against the Philadelphia 76ers, with a huge game 5 occurring tonight. While watching this series play out so far one player has consistently caught my eye and that is Atlanta Forward John Collins. This leaves me wanting to analyze the soon to be free agent’s performance throughout this season and to this point in the playoffs. Bringing forth reasoning as to why I consider him an asset many teams should look to add this offseason.

            First when looking at his overall season Collins had his ups and downs but put together a solid campaign. As he averaged, 17.6 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks this past regular season. With strong shooting splits of 55.6% from the field, 39.9% from three, and 83.3% from the free throw line. Though his counting numbers are down from the previous year, in which he averaged 21.6 points and 10.1 rebounds. Collins contributed in a big way to a resurgent season for an Atlanta team that has made the playoffs for the first time since the 2016-2017 season. In the postseason thus far Collins is averaging a solid 14.1 points and 7.0 rebounds, while shooting 54.4% form the field, 39.3% from three, and 90% form the free throw line. Scoring 12 or more points in 7 of Atlanta’s 9 playoff games, including games of 21, 22, and 23 points. Meaning Collins has transferred the success he had during the regular season and adjusted well to his first NBA playoffs experience.

            Now with all these numbers considered I believe this makes Collins a highly valuable commodity this NBA offseason. As the 23-year-old former 19th pick in the 2017 NBA draft is hitting the free agent market having not yet reached his prime. The versatility he has displayed as an offensive player through his first 4 seasons make him an attractive option alone. As he has never shot below 55% from the field in his career. While improving his three point shot each year, becoming a solid outside threat. Add in his energy and athleticism to a 6ft 9in 235lb frame and you get a gifted frontcourt player with his best years ahead of him. In terms of his defensive value he has shown the ability to be a strong defender. Being able to guard 4 of the 5 positions on the floor and use his length and quickness to block shots. Collins does at the same time have some growing to do as a player also. As he can still work to better his handle, to be able to take defenders effectively off the dribble more often. Plus, he must continue to work at limiting his fouls to maximize his defensive impact. Overall, the prospect of having a player with still major defensive upside along with an ever-improving offensive game is enticing to inquire about.

Now it is obvious Atlanta will do what they can to keep him apart of their core going forward, but I foresee many suitors for the talented young forward. Teams like Washington, Dallas, Boston, Denver, and the New York Knicks are just some of the teams I see as a fit for Collins. Teams that need athleticism and defensive versatility in their frontcourt, that can also bring some scoring punch. John Collins, I believe will remain an Atlanta Hawk for the foreseeable future. Though it may take only one team to make an offer he cannot refuse, or Atlanta may not be able to match. Only time will tell, but John Collins quietly is going to become an intriguing and sought-after free agent most fans may know little about.