The Atlanta Hawks spent the offseason reshaping the roster yet again, trying to convince themselves that a new mix might finally unlock the formula. On paper, the additions look impressive: Nickeil Alexander-Walker brings length and point-of-attack defense; Kristaps Porziņgis (if healthy) adds floor spacing and rim protection; Luke Kennard gives the second unit an elite shooter; and Dyson Daniels, fresh off a Defensive Player of the Year nod, projects as a strong backcourt complement to Trae Young. Collectively, they offer better spacing, defense, switchability and two-way depth than Atlanta has had in years. And yet, the question that has haunted this franchise for half a decade remains unanswered: who is the true No. 1 option on a team that still hasn’t proven it can defend or close games at a championship level? For all his offensive brilliance, Young remains a paradox. He’s one of the most productive creators in the league, but his style narrows Atlanta’s ceiling. Young’s career true-shooting percentage
