Last summer, Deron Williams and Chris Paul, selected by the Hawks and Jazz respectively, have already become significant variables in this season's competition among East and West teams for playoff spots.
With Deron on board, the Hawks no longer need to agonize over whether to use Tyronn Lue or Royce Evi at the point guard position.
Undoubtedly, Deron's addition is like replacing the engine of an already perfectly configured muscle car with a top-notch one.
Since Deron joined the team...
Atlanta fans have noticed that Josh Smith is soaring, while Al Harrington and Joe Johnson can exploit mismatches on the court caused by the opposing side's foolish and sluggish defense.
By All-Star Weekend, the Hawks temporarily ranked seventh in the East.
If it were past seasons, Hawks fans would have certainly complained about Deron Williams, who could average 14.8 points, 7.4 assists, and 3.9 rebounds in his rookie season. (Note ①)
Because with such stats, Deron...