Hawks Acquire Devin Carter: What to Expect from the Young Guard

The Atlanta Hawks have made a notable addition to their roster by acquiring Devin Carter from the Sacramento Kings, along with a second-round pick. This move may not have garnered as much attention as other offseason transactions, but it reflects the Hawks' strategy to remain financially flexible while maintaining competitiveness.

Carter, selected as the 13th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, is entering his third season in the league. Despite initial expectations, his time with the Kings has been challenging, particularly following the team's recent draft of guard Darius Acuff Jr., which limited Carter's playing time. However, he demonstrated his potential during the final months of the previous season when he received more opportunities on the court.

One of Carter's standout attributes is his athleticism, which allows him to effectively attack the rim. His sturdy build enables him to compete physically against both smaller and stronger defenders, a skill that could be valuable for the Hawks, especially in a bench role. Comparisons have been drawn between Carter and current Hawks guard Dyson Daniels, who is also known for his ability to penetrate defenses.

While Carter's three-point shooting has been inconsistent—averaging just 27.4% over his first two seasons—there are signs of improvement. His shooting percentage was slightly better in the latter part of last season, raising hopes that he can enhance this aspect of his game. Given the Hawks' emphasis on three-point shooting, developing this skill will be crucial for Carter's success in Atlanta.

Defensively, Carter brings energy and tenacity, often outperforming expectations in rebounding for a guard. His willingness to engage in the physical aspects of the game could make him a valuable asset off the bench for the Hawks as they look to bolster their depth and competitiveness in the upcoming season.