The Atlanta Hawks have shown promise this season, even though they missed the playoffs for the second consecutive year. Key young players, notably Dyson Daniels, have emerged, with Daniels earning the Most Improved Award for his standout defensive skills. Zaccharie Risacher's continued development adds to the optimism surrounding the team's future.

This offseason is pivotal as the Hawks aim to enhance their roster. The franchise is actively seeking a president of basketball operations to collaborate with new general manager Onsi Saleh. Recent reports indicate the Hawks have made significant hires, bringing in Bryson Graham from the New Orleans Pelicans as Senior VP of Basketball Operations and Peter Dinwiddie from the Philadelphia 76ers as Senior VP of Strategy and Analytics.

Graham's ascent from intern to GM at the Pelicans has equipped him with valuable experience, contributing to successful player drafts, including Daniels himself. Dinwiddie's tenure with the 76ers and previous years with the Indiana Pacers are expected to bring strategic depth to the Hawks' front office.

Evan Mobley of the Cleveland Cavaliers has claimed the NBA's Defensive Player of the Year for the 2022-23 season, highlighting his impact on the league's All-Defensive Team. Averaging 1.6 blocks per game, Mobley's versatility as a big man shone through in a season that saw the Cavaliers win 64 games. He received an overwhelming majority with 99 of 100 first-team votes. Joining him on the first team are Dyson Daniels, Luguentz Dort, Draymond Green, and Amen Thompson. Green, a five-time selection, continues to showcase his defensive prowess with 1.5 steals and 1.0 blocks per game. First-time selections include Daniels, who led the NBA with 3 steals per game and Dort, noted for his perimeter defense. The second team features notable players like Rudy Gobert and Jaren Jackson Jr., further emphasizing the depth of defensive talent in the league.

The Atlanta Hawks had a mixed season, finishing 40-42 and landing eighth in the Eastern Conference, ultimately falling short in the play-in tournament. Despite trading Dejounte Murray and acquiring Dyson Daniels, who excelled as a fantasy player, the team struggled with offensive and defensive ratings that fell in the middle tier. With significant draft capital and young talent, including Trae Young and newly acquired prospects, the Hawks are looking to rebuild while trying to keep playoff aspirations alive.

Dyson Daniels emerged as a standout, averaging 14.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game, making him a valuable asset in fantasy leagues. Onyeka Okongwu showed promise after moving into a starting role, averaging 15.0 points and 10.1 rebounds post-January. However, Clint Capela faced a disappointing season, seeing his production decline significantly after being benched. With promising talent like Jalen Johnson and Zaccharie Risacher, the Hawks have the foundation for future success.

Dyson Daniels of the Atlanta Hawks has claimed the 2025 Most Improved Player award, showcasing his significant development during the 2024-25 season. Transitioning from the New Orleans Pelicans, Daniels has elevated his game, going from averaging 5.8 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in limited minutes to becoming a starter for the Hawks with averages of 14.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 4.4 assists.

His defensive prowess also surged, with his steals per game jumping from 1.4 to an impressive 3.0, making him the league leader in that category. The Hawks celebrated his accomplishment on social media, highlighting his unanimous selection from 44 first-place votes. Previously, the last player to win the MIP and average at least three steals was Alvin Robertson in 1986. With this achievement, Daniels has positioned himself as a cornerstone for the Hawks' future.

Dyson Daniels transformed his career following a trade to the Atlanta Hawks, where he flourished with increased playing time and responsibility. In a standout season, he averaged 14.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, and showcased elite defensive skills, finishing second in the Defensive Player of the Year voting. His offensive output jumped by over eight points per game, and he earned the NBA's Most Improved Player award, solidifying his status as a rising star in the league.

With 44 first-place votes from a panel of journalists, Daniels outperformed competitors like Ivica Zubac and Cade Cunningham. The recognition highlighted his breakout performance and contributions to the Hawks, a team in need of versatile wings. His impressive development reflects the potential for fantasy basketball owners to consider him a valuable asset moving forward.