After taking a significant step back in 2021-22 from the dizzying highs of a 2011 postseason run, the Atlanta Hawks have been dead set on shuffling the deck this offseason. As soon as exit interviews at the conclusion of the season, you could feel a sense of uncomfortable stagnation with what had recently transpired. From the players to the coaches to the administrative level inside the organization, virtually everyone indicated a need to break through a metaphorical glass ceiling.
In the first round of the most recent playoffs, the Miami Heat displayed a master class on how to sever the roots of Atlanta’s seemingly dangerous offensive attack — one that finished second in offensive rating in the regular season.