coach Quin Snyder, this problem almost seems to be getting

It is well known that the Atlanta Hawks (24–31) do not play their rookies; in fact, under head coach Quin Snyder, this issue appears to be growing worse. With the exception of Jalen Johnson, Snyder appears to be only playing veterans, allowing the G League to nurture the younger players.

This season, AJ Griffin seems to have regressed. However, compared to previous season, he is only playing about one-third as many minutes each game. Consequently, he shot 33.3 percent this season compared to 39.0 percent the previous year. This is not meant as a criticism on Griffin; he is just not spending enough time on the court to establish a rhythm.Let’s hope that Kobe Bufkin, the Hawks’ first-round selection this season, is spared from this fate. He has played so little this season that he would be out of the league should he receive a reduction the next year. Let’s examine Bufkin and the potential he may bring to the Hawks.

What may the Atlanta Hawks get from rookie Kobe Bufkin?
Bufkin has only appeared in five games for the Hawks this season. In just 5.0 minutes a game during those contests, he has only managed to average 1.8 points and 1.2 assists. These are hardly impressive stats, but you cannot demonstrate your potential if you are not given the chance.

During his 14 games with the College Park Skyhawks in the G League, Bufkin has demonstrated more of his abilities. Bufkin has averaged 23.6 points, 5.9 assists, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.3 steals in 31.9 minutes over these games.He is also making significantly better shots; in these shots, he is connecting on 35.6 percent of his 7.4 tries from beyond the arc.

Bufkin began to demonstrate his NBA abilities the game after Trent Forrest was ruled ineligible to participate after participating in 50 games as a two-way player. He had a plus/minus of 0 for the little over 16 minutes that he was able to play. His defense was the best part of his game, even though he only had three points and three rebounds.

This seems to be the Hawks’ main issue during the current campaign. In terms of defensive rating, they rank worst in the NBA, and in terms of offensive rating, they rank sixth. They now have a net rating of 23rd, which is just insufficient to contend with the top clubs.

The Hawks should develop Bufkin in case he ends up becoming Trae Young’s counterpoint in the future, as Dejounte Murray hasn’t lived up to the defensive hype. Young’s back court partner is failing him despite the fact that his defense has really improved. Sure, Bufkin won’t likely be able to match Murray’s attacking prowess, but he should be able to relieve some of Young’s load.

In any case, the Hawks could be able to include Bufkin in a trade over the offseason if they can allow him to demonstrate his abilities. By playing him, they stand to gain a great lot and lose nothing. Kobe Bufkin should now be let loose in the NBA to see