Dyson Daniels Emerges as Key Two-Way Contributor for Atlanta Hawks

When discussing Dyson Daniels and his impact on the Atlanta Hawks, it’s impossible to overlook his defense. Leading the NBA in both steals and deflections by impressive margins, Daniels has truly set himself apart. As of Tuesday’s games, he has accumulated 137 steals—well ahead of second-place Shai Gilgeous-Alexander with 92—and 278 deflections, nearly 100 more than the next closest player, Kelly Oubre (185).

Such numbers alone would make Daniels a strong candidate for a First-Team All-Defense spot. But beyond his individual stats, his influence on the Hawks’ team defense has been monumental. Last season, before Daniels’ arrival, the Hawks ranked 27th in defensive rating, allowing 118.4 points per 100 possessions. This season, they’ve improved significantly, currently sitting 16th with a defensive rating of 113.6. Daniels has been a major factor in disrupting opposing offenses and making life difficult for the league’s top guards.

While Daniels’ defense has been a revelation, it’s also time to acknowledge his offensive growth. In his first two NBA seasons, Daniels had never scored more than 17 points in a game. This season, he has surpassed the 20-point mark six times, including four games since January 18. Over his last ten games, he’s averaging 16.7 points on an impressive 53.1% shooting from the field. What was once a career-high is now a mark he consistently hits.

The Hawks, who were struggling before Trae Young’s game-winning performance on Monday, needed someone to fill the void left by Jalen Johnson’s absence. While Daniels isn’t replacing Johnson’s unique skill set, he is stepping up in two crucial areas for the Hawks’ offense. First, Daniels has been aggressive in pushing the ball in transition. While he may not dunk as frequently as Johnson, his footwork and finishing ability allow him to weave around defenders and finish at the rim. If the defense collapses on him, he is capable of finding an open teammate.

Head coach Quin Snyder has praised Daniels’ improved aggressiveness, saying, “We’ve talked to him a lot about being more aggressive attacking the basket… as the season has progressed, he’s been more aggressive in whatever it is he’s doing—whether it’s passing, finishing, or shooting a floater.”

Second, Daniels has emerged as the Hawks’ best candidate for a quick-strike play toward the rim. Whether it’s a quick drive off the catch or a cut to exploit an opening in the defense, Daniels can take advantage of defenses trying to shade help toward Trae Young. His ability to make these plays has been a major asset.

Trae Young himself emphasized the importance of teammates like Daniels being aggressive. “When you have a guy like Dyson who attacks, if nobody helps, he’s getting layups or floaters,” Young said. “And if he makes a couple of those, then you’re forced to help, and that opens up opportunities for other guys to get shots.”

While the Hawks’ season has been marred by the loss of their best rim attacker, Daniels has made the most of the chances he’s been given. He continues to be a vital two-way player, and his growth on both ends of the floor has been a bright spot for the team as they push forward.