Asa Newell’s rookie season with the Atlanta Hawks began to take shape after a series of efficient offensive flashes. He showed impressive three-point shooting and production that reflect long-term potential. Though his minutes have been limited, the combination of size, shooting, and composure turned several early games into meaningful checkpoints for his development.
In a recent College Park Skyhawks outing, Newell erupted for a career-high 27 points, adding seven rebounds, six assists, two steals, and a block in 32 minutes. He shot 11-of-22 from the floor and drilled 4-of-7 from deep. After three games with the Skyhawks, he averaged 20.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, shooting 58.1% from the field and 58.3% from beyond the arc. These numbers stand out for a rookie forward, especially the 3-point percentage, which remains far beyond what most expect from the 6′10″ big man early in his career.
The clearest breakthrough came in a standout performance against the Los Angeles Lakers. Newell delivered 17 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 steals while shooting efficiently and displaying sharp defensive instincts. It was the first game that showcased a complete blend of scoring, activity on the glass, and disruptive impact on the perimeter. The confidence to attack offensively, combined with an assertive defensive presence, presented the attributes that can translate to a future rotational role.
Another notable outing came in a 25-minute performance against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Newell totaled 12 points and 10 rebounds, going 4-of-9 from the field and 3-for-5 from beyond the arc. This appearance reinforced a consistent theme early in the campaign- accuracy from deep when opportunities arose. Through the first 25 games, Newell shoots 50.0% from the field and 47.6% from downtown.
His size makes his shooting even more valuable. A 6’10” forward who can stretch the floor forces defenses to extend coverage, opening driving lanes for guards and shifting help assignments. Modern NBA offenses rely heavily on players who can space from the corners and above the break, and Newell has shown signs of fitting that mold. The fluidity of his jumper and willingness to shoot in rhythm give Atlanta useful options in bench lineups and blended units.
Newell’s Playing Time Remains Inconsistent
However, the path to consistent minutes remains complicated due to a position battle with Mouhamed Gueye. Gueye brings length, switch ability, rim protection, and defensive activity- traits that coaching staffs often prioritize in young bigs. His shooting remains a work in progress.
Gueye shot 39.5 percent from deep on 3.6 attempts per game last season in the G League and ended with a hot stretch, making 23 of his final 44 attempts. Despite those flashes, Gueye’s 3-point efficiency dipped significantly at the NBA level. He converts just 26.9% of his attempts. Despite the perimeter offensive struggles, his ability to guard multiple positions and anchor lineups defensively creates a contrasting profile to Newell’s offensive impact. As a result, the competition for backup power forward minutes is defined by two distinct skill sets, with matchups and nightly needs often determining which direction the rotation leans.
Newell’s key to climbing the depth chart is sustaining the efficiency shown in games like those against the Lakers and Oklahoma City. Making open threes, securing rebounds, and defending effectively in space allow his strengths to outweigh his inexperience. The sample size remains small, but the combination of shooting and movement at his size provides a compelling foundation. Newell’s early flashes offer optimism for a future stretch-four role.
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