The Atlanta Hawks have experienced a rollercoaster start to their season, grappling with injuries, illnesses, and inconsistent performances from key players, resulting in a 5-5 record after the first ten games. Among the most notable developments has been the resurgence of Zachcharie Risacher, last year’s first overall draft pick, who emerged from a challenging early-season slump.
Initially, the 20-year-old forward struggled to find his footing, averaging just 9.4 points per game, with shooting splits of 42.2% from the field and 31.6% from beyond the arc. However, everything changed during the Hawks’ matchup against the Orlando Magic on Tuesday night, where Risacher rose to the occasion, finishing with 21 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 steal in just 26 minutes of play. His impressive performance was crucial for Atlanta as they secured a vital win against a division rival despite being without their star guard, Trae Young.
Risacher’s continued growth was evident during the following game against the Toronto Raptors, where, despite the team’s loss, he contributed significantly with 16 points, 5 rebounds, 2 steals, and a block in 30 minutes on the court. His defensive prowess was also highlighted, underscoring his role as a key player even in less-than-ideal circumstances.
The challenge ramped up further as the Hawks faced the Los Angeles Lakers in a back-to-back match. While some star players were rested, Risacher took on starter-level minutes again, contributing 19 points, 4 assists, and 2 steals on 50% shooting from the field. Over the last three games, Risacher has averaged 18.7 points, 3.3 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 1.7 steals, while showcasing improved shooting efficiency.
As the dust settles on the first week of the season, it’s becoming clearer that Risacher’s early struggles might have been temporary. His recent performances have allayed concerns among Hawks fans, highlighting his potential and reaffirming his status as one of the most underrated forwards in the NBA. With his resurgence, the Hawks seem poised to navigate the challenges ahead and capitalize on Risacher’s growing role in the team.