The Hawks made their final roster move by signing N'Faly Dante, a young center who was a star in the G League last season. The Hawks are clearly prioritizing a deep frontcourt lineup, rostering five players who can play the five position: Dante, Kristaps Porzingis, Onyeka Okongwu, Mouhamed Gueye, and Asa Newell.
Okongwu was one of the league's best developmental success stories last season. After starting the year behind Clint Capela, Okongwu broke into the starting lineup in January. The team initially struggled, however, posting an eight-game losing streak with him as the starter.
Disaster struck during this cold spell when Jalen Johnson suffered a shoulder injury that would sideline the breakout star for the season.