Hawks Shake Up Rotation: Risacher to the Bench, McCollum Takes Center Stage
In a surprising move, Atlanta Hawks rookie Zaccharie Risacher has been removed from the starting lineup, replaced by veteran CJ McCollum. The decision, announced ahead of the Hawks’ 115-104 victory over the Brooklyn Nets, signals a shift in strategy for head coach Quin Snyder, prioritizing a stronger initial lineup and leveraging McCollum’s scoring prowess.
Snyder Explains the Rationale
Coach Snyder emphasized that starting lineups aren’t the be-all and end-all, stating, “I’ve said it to you guys in a lot of different ways: it’s not about who starts, it’s about who finishes and the rotations.” He highlighted that the lineup featuring McCollum, Dyson Daniels, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Jalen Johnson, and Onyeka Okongwu currently boasts the team’s best “Net Rating” – a metric measuring point differential per 100 possessions – at +4.2.
However, data suggests a potential wrinkle. A five-man unit of McCollum, Daniels, Alexander-Walker, Johnson, and Okongwu has a +4.2 Net Rating, while replacing Daniels with Risacher yields a +5.8 Net Rating, despite limited playing time together. Snyder’s reasoning centers on McCollum’s impact off the bench and the need for stability in the starting five.
A Positive Step for Risacher?
Despite the change, Snyder expressed confidence in Risacher’s future, suggesting the move could be beneficial. “I even think it can be positive for him: to come into the game against different matchups, against different players,” Snyder said. He noted Risacher appeared “relaxed and competitive” despite the adjustment.
The decision comes as Risacher navigates a challenging sophomore season, with a decreasing influence and difficulty finding his role following the departure of Trae Young and the rise of Jalen Johnson as a focal point for the Hawks. His stats reflect this, with averages of 10.4 points and 3.5 rebounds in 44 games this season, compared to 12.6 points and 3.6 rebounds in 75 games last season.
McCollum’s Impact and the Hawks’ Restructuring
Snyder explained that keeping McCollum on the bench was limiting the team’s potential. “Not starting CJ was giving us some dribble, some scoring, and some impact off the bench. But we weren’t seeing our best five as often.” The move aims to stabilize the team’s often-struggling starts and provide another ball-handler on the floor.
FAQ
Q: Why was Zaccharie Risacher benched?
A: Coach Quin Snyder wanted to improve the team’s starting lineup and leverage CJ McCollum’s scoring ability. He believes the current starting five has the highest Net Rating.
Q: Is this a sign that the Hawks are unhappy with Risacher’s performance?
A: Not necessarily. Snyder has repeatedly stated his confidence in Risacher and believes the change could be positive for his development.
Q: What is a “Net Rating”?
A: Net Rating is a statistic that measures a team’s point differential per 100 possessions. It’s used to evaluate the effectiveness of different lineups.
Q: Will Risacher get his starting spot back?
A: It’s unclear. Snyder has emphasized that rotations are fluid and will be based on performance and matchups.
Did you recognize? The Hawks’ starting lineup with McCollum, Daniels, Alexander-Walker, Johnson, and Okongwu has a Net Rating of +4.2, the highest of any frequently used combination by Quin Snyder.
Pro Tip: Retain an eye on how Risacher responds to coming off the bench. His ability to adapt and contribute in a different role will be crucial for his long-term success.
What are your thoughts on this lineup change? Share your opinions in the comments below! Don’t forget to check out our other articles for more in-depth NBA analysis.
