Hawks’ No. 1 pick struggles in official NBA debut

The NBA is officially back, with the majority of the league competing in an exciting matchup on Wednesday night.

The NBA’s most recent No. 1 pick, Atlanta Hawks forward Zaccharie Risacher, struggled in his official NBA debut.

After finding varying degrees of success in both Summer League and the preseason, the Frenchman’s official NBA start hasn’t been particularly stellar, as he shot just 2 of 8 for seven points. In his 19 minutes, he shot just 1-for-4 from distance and added just one rebound.

Luckily, the Hawks survived the rebuilding Brooklyn Nets behind a strong opening day from star Trae Young.

For Risacher, there is little reason to worry if one only assumes performance under high pressure. He has already proven he can have a positive impact on the game at the professional level, both in France and with the Hawks.

In the team’s season opener, the winger shot 7-of-9 overall, scored an incredible 18 points and added three rebounds and two assists, leading to a team-high +15 plus-minus.

Even if Risacher will not find a positive rhythm in the next few months, many expected this for the 19-year-old, who now finds himself in a different professional environment. At 6’3″ tall, he is the ultimate project wing, with excellent perimeter skills and the tools necessary to become a potential elite defender.

For now, he will need time to settle into the league.

Risacher and the Hawks have a chance to bounce back against an Eastern Conference opponent, the Charlotte Hornets, on Friday, October 25th at 5:30 p.m.

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