Apart from the Dejounte Murray trade that occurred earlier this offseason, the Atlanta Hawks have made slight enhancements to their roster as training camp draws near. A recent addition is Dominick Barlow, an undrafted free agent from the San Antonio Spurs in 2022.
Over the last two seasons, Barlow participated in 61 games for the Spurs, averaging 4.2 points and 3.5 rebounds in 13.6 minutes per game. After last season, the Spurs chose not to extend a qualifying offer to Barlow, which categorized him as an unrestricted free agent and enabled the Hawks to sign him.
At 6 feet 9 inches tall, the forward is still quite young, possessing significant potential in his skill set. Barlow can be categorized as an athletic four who is capable of defending centers. Offensively, he excels as a rim runner while also demonstrating proficiency in his face-up game.
One of the standout performances from Barlow’s stint with the Spurs was his 21-point, 19-rebound game against the Dallas Mavericks. During that match, Barlow displayed a wide range of skills, particularly emphasizing his strong presence in the paint.
Barlow further honed his skills in the G League, where he played in 53 games, averaging 16.8 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks in 29.1 minutes. In these games, he expanded his offensive repertoire and developed his jump shot, an area that isn’t his primary strength but shows his commitment to improvement.
Nice pickup for the Atlanta Hawks. Dominick Barlow still has a lot of untapped potential as a “speed 5.” His instincts combined with his high motor make for a promising developmental big. Having said that, the Hawks could have still retained Bruno Fernando ♂️pic.twitter.com/spa7zHMNEg https://t.co/EcvSolsLqz
— Conrado Pascual (@CP3_777) July 30, 2024
The Hawks seem to be aiming for greater athleticism in their forward positions while also focusing on building depth. Following Saddiq Bey’s season-ending injury, the team heavily relied on Jalen Johnson, who also faced injuries that limited his availability.
Now, the team has several options to fill that slot, making it intriguing to observe who will receive minutes when Johnson is resting on the bench.
If Barlow finds limited playing time with the Hawks, he is likely to be assigned to the College Park Skyhawks, a team known for its effective developmental system. Barlow possesses the tools to become a solid player in the league, and it is hoped that his time with the Hawks will aid him in unlocking that potential.
Atlanta Hawks Add Potential with Dominick Barlow: A Look at His Journey and Future
Who is Dominick Barlow?
Dominick Barlow is a promising talent in the NBA, known for his versatility on the court. Standing at 6’10” with an impressive wingspan, Barlow has caught the attention of scouts and analysts alike. His journey into professional basketball is not just about his height or skills; it’s about perseverance, hard work, and a relentless drive to improve. Initially starting his career at St. Patrick’s High School in New Jersey, Barlow made a name for himself as a standout player.
High School Career
- Key Achievements: Barlow was a pivotal player for his high school team, earning accolades and recognition as one of New Jersey’s top recruits.
- Playing Style: His ability to score from the perimeter, combined with his athleticism, made him a formidable opponent.
- College Recruitment: Barlow attracted attention from multiple collegiate programs before deciding to take a different route.
Path to the NBA
Instead of attending college, Barlow opted to join the NBA G League, which provided him with a platform to showcase his skills against seasoned players. This decision was pivotal in his development and allowed him to refine his game while gaining valuable experience.
NBA G League Experience
During his time in the G League, Barlow played with the Blue Coats, the affiliate team of the Philadelphia 76ers. Here are some highlights from his stint:
| Season | Games Played | Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game</th | Assists Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-2023 | 20 | 15.4 | 7.2 | 2.1 |
Joining the Atlanta Hawks
In 2023, Dominick Barlow signed with the Atlanta Hawks, marking a significant leap in his career. The Hawks, looking to bolster their roster with young talent, see Barlow as a potential cornerstone for the future. With the departure of some key players, the team is looking to rebuild while maintaining competitiveness in the Eastern Conference.
What Barlow Brings to the Hawks
Barlow’s addition to the Hawks brings several advantages:
- Versatility: His ability to play multiple positions allows for strategic flexibility on the court.
- Defensive Skills: Barlow has shown substantial potential on the defensive end, capable of guarding both forwards and centers.
- Scoring Ability: His development in scoring, especially in tough situations, makes him a reliable player in clutch moments.
Future Prospects
As Barlow integrates into the Hawks’ system, his future looks bright. With guidance from experienced teammates and coaching staff, he has the potential to become a significant player in the league. Key areas of focus for his development include:
- Improving Basketball IQ: Understanding game situations and making quick decisions can elevate his performance.
- Expanding Offensive Skills: Further developing his shooting range and ball-handling will make him a more complete player.
- Defensive Mastery: Continuing to build on his defensive skills will enhance his value to the team.
Comparative Analysis with Other Young Talents
Barlow’s journey can be compared to several other young talents in the NBA. Here is a brief overview of how he stacks up against some of his contemporaries:
| Player | Height | Average Points | Average Rebounds | Draft Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dominick Barlow | 6’10” | 15.4 | 7.2 | 2023 |
| Jalen Green | 6’6″ | 17.3 | 3.4 | 2021 |
| Cade Cunningham | 6’6″ | 17.4 | 5.6 | 2021 |
Benefits of Following Dominick Barlow’s Career
For fans and aspiring athletes, following Barlow’s career can provide several benefits:
- Inspirational Journey: His story of perseverance can motivate others to pursue their dreams regardless of obstacles.
- Learning Opportunities: Analyzing his gameplay can provide insights into improving one’s own skills.
- Engagement with the Team: As a new player, Barlow adds excitement to the Hawks’ future, making following the team more engaging.
Conclusion
Dominick Barlow’s journey to the Atlanta Hawks exemplifies the potential for young talent in the NBA. His unique blend of skills, coupled with a strong work ethic, sets the stage for a promising future. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how he will develop and contribute to the Hawks’ success in the coming seasons.
