NBA Mock Draft 2017: ESPN projects talented big man to Atlanta Hawks

Brendan Maloney-USA TODAY SportsThe Atlanta Hawks reportedly spent a great deal of time with Texas big man Jarrett Allen this week, as Chris Vivlamore of the AJC reports that the youngster and Atlanta’s brass spent two meals together sandwiched around a workout. Fittingly, Chad Ford of ESPN is now projecting the Hawks to pick up Allen with the No. 19 overall pick in his latest mock draft.

New GM Travis Schlenk will be tasked with trying to turn the Hawks into an East Coast version of the Warriors. Alas, there is no Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Draymond Green or Klay Thompson at this point in the draft.

Allen is a terrific rebounder and shot-blocker. Plus, he's a fluid athlete. He just needs…