The Atlanta Hawks figured to be terrible, albeit by design. They’re not quite terrible. A week before Christmas, they were 6-23; they’re 16-25 since. They won 24 games last season; with 16 remaining, this team has won 22. That they’ve exceeded (admittedly meager) expectations has led many if not most to pronounce them – all together now – ahead of schedule.
Trae Young has a semi-realistic shot to win rookie of the year. Fellow rookie Kevin Huerter is ensconced in the starting five. In Year 2 as pro, John Collins has gone from highlight dunker to potential staple.