NBA Draft 2020: Top 3 options for Atlanta Hawks with No. 6 pick

Isaac Okoro, 6-6 Forward – Auburn

Isaac Okoro‘s fit with the Atlanta Hawks is obvious because he would address their primary need: defense. He is considered by many to be the best defender in this draft class. Atlanta is currently one of the worst defensive teams in the NBA.

Trae Young’s defensive shortcomings are well-documented and the team as a whole currently ranks third-worst in the league in adjusted defensive rating. Okoro’s size and length allow him to guard multiple positions, even small-ball fives, and he finished his freshman season at Auburn averaging a block and a steal per game.

He isn’t a fantastic shooter from distance, but the Hawks wouldn’t need him to do that – at least not right away with the bevy of sharpshooters they already have in Young, Huerter, Hunter, and Reddish. Okoro’s offensive value lies in his abilities as an athletic slasher who can finish at the rim.

This skill set would fit nicely into the Hawks’ system as they can play an inside-out game with the unselfish Okoro driving in and kicking out to open shooters. This would also be helpful in transition offense with a crafty guard like Trae Young finding a slashing Okoro.

So although his shot from distance is questionable, Okoro still has offensive value and he can always develop a three-point shot, as many college players have done after transitioning to the NBA. As an added plus, Isaac Okoro is a local product hailing from the Atlanta area.