Hawks’ Dyson Daniels Shines as NBA Playoffs Loom

ORLANDO, Fla. – Dyson Daniels, a candidate for NBA Defensive Player of the Year, reflected on his transformation from the New Orleans Pelicans to his breakout season with the Atlanta Hawks. Speaking to Andscape before the Hawks faced the Orlando Magic in a crucial play-in tournament game, Daniels acknowledged that his early career wasn’t indicative of his potential. “I don’t point fingers at anyone but myself,” Daniels said. “I came in there in New Orleans and took a step back. I let the superstars be the superstars.”

While the Pelicans’ season ended without a playoff appearance, Daniels and the Hawks are positioned for a do-or-die game against the Miami Heat for the Eastern Conference’s eighth seed. “We just got to come with the same mentality, same preparation,” he stated, underscoring the game’s importance as a ‘Game 7 type of deal.’

In his first season with the Hawks, Daniels averaged career highs of 14.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game. His defensive prowess shone particularly bright as he became the first player in 31 years to average at least three steals per game. He also recorded an NBA-best 443 deflections, averaging 5.8 per game this season.

“People work on their offensive game. I work on my defensive game,” Daniels explained. “I really study the game, what teams like to do, where I can gamble, where I can come from behind people and poke it loose.” His comprehensive approach to defense showcases his commitment to his craft.

Daniels is in contention for the Most Improved Player and Defensive Player of the Year awards, with finalists set to be announced soon. Dikembe Mutombo remains the only Hawks player to claim the Defensive Player of the Year title back in 1997 and 1998. “To be in the position I am in now from last year, just to have my name in that conversation is special,” he noted.

After being selected with the eighth overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft from the G League Ignite, Daniels encountered challenges, averaging only 4.8 points and 2.5 assists over his first two years in New Orleans. He described himself as playing ‘like a shy kid’ and lacking confidence during that time. “I was going downhill a little bit. I wasn’t myself,” he admitted.

The Pelicans’ disappointing exit at the hands of the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round of the 2024 playoffs prompted a turnaround moment for Daniels. “I told my agent, ‘This is not me. I’m going to be better next year,’” he said. His dedication led him to represent Australia at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he regained his confidence.

On July 6, 2024, Daniels was traded to the Hawks in a deal that sent several players, including E.J. Liddell and Larry Nance Jr., to New Orleans in exchange for All-Star guard Dejounte Murray. “It was kind of shocking,” he recalled regarding his initial feelings about the trade.

Despite the abrupt change, Daniels soon recognized the opportunity for a fresh start in Atlanta. “I said to myself, ‘This is good for me. This is a fresh start. I can really thrive off and kind of kick start my career again,’” he said.

His Olympic experience became pivotal for his journey, as he played with renewed vigor and assuredness. “I came into the Olympics saying, ‘F— it, I’m going to be the best player on the floor every time I step on,’” he recounted, highlighting his newfound mentality.

Once in Atlanta, head coach Quin Snyder played a crucial role in shaping Daniels’ confidence. “He saw something in me that other people didn’t,” Daniels explained about Snyder’s decision to start him alongside Trae Young. “Coach Q has been the perfect guy to really kickstart my game again.” Daniels’ integration into the team showcased his adaptability and determination.

As the playoffs approach, comments from teammates reflect their admiration. “I just couldn’t be any happier for him,” Nance Jr. remarked. “He was ready to seize the opportunities given to him.”

With awards on the line and playoff aspirations intact, Dyson Daniels’ journey from uncertainty to confidence underscores the potential of a young talent eager to establish himself in the NBA.