Rick’s Top Five Hawks Questions Entering Regular Season

1. Will the ownership sale and front office controversy be a distraction?

Yes, but it won’t keep the team from realizing its goals. First of all, players play, and the Hawks have players. Second, Coach Bud will have a great game plan every night and keep them focused.

2. Can Al Horford stay healthy?

I don’t know. Thing is, I don’t think Al knows either. No one does. After the recent pectoral injuries, he’s as much of an injury question as D-Rose. But if Horford stays healthy, the Hawks can finish as high as 3rd in the east.

3. Will Jeff Teague make the All-Star team?

Probably not, but he’ll come close. And if he can creep up to 18 and 8, he may enter the Most Improved discussion, and earn the Hawks home court in the first round.

4. Will Thabo Sefalosha and Kent Bazemore make the Hawks better?

Yes, Thabo is a sic-em defender and Bazemore is a highlight waiting to happen. More quality buttons for Coach Bud to push.

5. Was Adreian Payne a good pick?

Heck yes! The Hawks are super deep at the 4 and 5, so I don’t know how much playing time he will receive as a rookie. That said, his combo of size, range, and athleticism will make it tough to keep him off the floor.