THE NBA Draft is just around the corner, in what shapes as one of the most anticipated selection nights in recent memory, thanks to a talented crop of up and comers set to have their dreams realised.

With that in mind, Rookie Me Central will be previewing each side ahead of draft night on June 22, unpacking all 30 teams’ needs and potential selections as they look towards the future.

The next team on the cards are the Atlanta Hawks, who will be eager to use their pair of draft picks to fill any gaps in their side and help take their list to the next level, having struggled to make a deep run in the playoffs over the past few years.

Atlanta Hawks

Draft selections

15, 46

Contracted players

Trae Young, John Collins, Clint Capela, Bogdan Bogdanovic, Dejounte Murray, De’Andre Hunter, Onyeka Okongwu, AJ Griffin, Saddiq Bey, Jalen Johnson, Bruno Fernando, Garrison Matthews, Vit Krejci, Tyrese Martin, Trent Forrest (qualifying offer), Donovan Williams (qualifying offer)

The Hawks look set to retain most of their roster from last season, although trade rumours are swirling around the likes of Young and Collins. However, if this team opts to stick it out with the current personnel, there is plenty of talent in the draft pool that could help take Atlanta to the next level.

The Hawks will be spoilt for choice with the 15th pick, and seem likely to boost their backup guard stocks. The team’s reliance on Young as a shotmaker has proven costly at times throughout the season, so someone like Jalen Hood-Schifino could fill this void. Although his form was patchy at times, his ability to pass off the dribble and create his own shot makes him an excellent long-term option.

Another guard option around that mark could be Kobe Bufkin, who has emerged as an NBA ready player given his ability to slot into either guard spot. With an all-around game that includes strong potential on both sides of the ball, he could be a great selection as a combo-guard.

With the 46th pick in the draft, the Hawks could boost their wing stocks with the selection of Sidy Cissoko. Having spent time with the G-League Ignite side, Cissoko has shown the capability to play either the two or the three and can guard four of the five positions on the court. He has also shown chops as a secondary playmaker, so he is worth thinking about in the second round.

The Hawks are still a chance to move their first selection, but will have plenty of quality options given the depth and talent in the 2023 draft class.