The Atlanta Hawks are facing a critical juncture ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft, possessing the No. 13 and No. 22 picks but lacking control over their own first-round picks through 2027 due to the Dejounte Murray trade. After failing to make the playoffs, the team's direction is uncertain, particularly concerning Trae Young's future. With the Hawks unable to bottom out due to pick obligations to San Antonio, the incoming GM must make difficult decisions, including contemplating life after Trae.

In a 2025 NBA mock draft on The Sixer Sense Podcast, the selection of Illinois point guard Kasparas Jakučionis at No. 13 for the Hawks hints at potential changes. Jakučionis, an 18-year-old Lithuanian, experienced a rapid rise on draft boards, though his dominance waned somewhat during the season due to the physicality of Big Ten play and an injury. Despite these challenges, he has maintained a projected lottery pick status for several months.

The selection of another guard raises questions about the future, especially considering the possibility of a post-Trae Young era. Jakučionis offers the Hawks optionality, providing value at No. 13 due to his knockdown shooting and selfless play. He can operate effectively off-ball, excelling in spot-up 3s and attacking closeouts, traits that could complement Young should they share the court.

While Jakučionis needs defensive improvement, his size (6-foot-6 with a 6-foot-8 wingspan) allows him to share the floor with Young, especially with Atlanta's existing lanky perimeter defenders. Players like Dyson Daniels, Zaccharie Risacher, and Jalen Johnson can compensate for defensive shortcomings.

Jakučionis presents a natural pivot point for the Hawks regarding Young's future, displaying excellent tempo and feel in pick-and-rolls. Despite needing to reduce turnovers, his court vision and passing ability are exceptional. He's arguably the best live-dribble passer in the draft, demonstrating impeccable footwork and a high vantage point as an initiator.

Concerns exist about Jakučionis' ability to generate separation and handle pressure, but his blend of size, strength, and basketball IQ, combined with his shooting ability, suggests he will succeed. He possesses a buttery pull-up shot and a step-back in his arsenal, enabling him to win matchups even without explosive burst. Comparisons to international guards like Goran Dragic or Manu Ginobili are not unwarranted.

With their wing rotation developing and Onyeka Okongwu emerging as a starting center, selecting a big guard like Jakučionis is logical. It allows Atlanta to consider alternative paths, whether retooling to contend with Jakučionis at point or rebuilding entirely. This pick provides the flexibility to reshape the roster and address uncertainties surrounding Trae Young's future with the team.