The vet made an impact despite infrequent minutes.
Larry Nance Jr.’s 2024–25 season with the Atlanta Hawks showcased his adaptability, leadership, and basketball intelligence. Acquired in a significant trade that sent Dejounte Murray to the New Orleans Pelicans, Nance, along with Dyson Daniels, became a pivotal part of the Hawks’ roster transformation.
Veteran Leadership and Cultural Fit
At 32, Nance brought a wealth of experience and professionalism to a young Hawks team. His willingness to embrace various roles, whether starting, coming off the bench, or mentoring from the sidelines, exemplified the selfless, team-first culture Atlanta aimed to cultivate.
Even during stretches when he was out of the rotation, Nance remained a vocal leader, guiding younger teammates and maintaining a positive locker room presence. His contributions were recognized when he received the Jason Collier Memorial Award, honoring his commitment to the team both on and off the court.
Offensive Contributions and Floor Spacing
One of Nance’s most notable contributions was his ability to stretch the floor from the center position, a skill set the Hawks had lacked in recent years. Shooting an impressive 44.7% from beyond the arc, he provided much-needed spacing, pulling opposing big men away from the paint and opening driving lanes for guards like Trae Young and Dyson Daniels. This shooting prowess was particularly effective when Nance shared the floor with forwards Jalen Johnson and Zaccharie Risacher, creating a dynamic offensive trio that challenged defenses.
High Basketball IQ and Offensive Synergy
Nance’s basketball intelligence was evident in his seamless integration into the Hawks’ offense, which emphasized quick decision-making and ball movement. His ability to read the floor, make timely passes, and set effective screens facilitated the team’s “0.5-second” decision-making philosophy. This approach mirrored the offensive style of fellow big man Onyeka Okongwu, allowing for a cohesive frontcourt rotation that maintained offensive fluidity regardless of personnel changes.
Defensive Reliability Amid Mobility Challenges
Defensively, Nance provided a stable presence, leveraging his experience and positioning to compensate for any decline in lateral quickness. While he faced challenges guarding more agile opponents, his understanding of team defensive schemes and ability to communicate effectively helped anchor the Hawks’ defense during his minutes on the court. His professionalism ensured that he remained a dependable defensive contributor.
Rebounding and Physicality
In the rebounding department, Nance averaged 4.3 rebounds per game over 24 appearances, with a notable 3.3 coming on the defensive end. While these numbers reflected a slight dip from earlier in his career, his commitment to boxing out and securing crucial boards remained evident. His physicality and effort in the paint continued to be assets, particularly in matchups requiring toughness and physicality.
Impactful Partnerships and Offensive Rating
Statistical analyses highlighted Nance’s positive impact when sharing the floor with Jalen Johnson and Zaccharie Risacher. The trio’s combined offensive rating surpassed the team’s average, indicating a synergistic effect that enhanced overall performance. Their complementary skill sets — Nance’s spacing, Johnson’s slashing, and Risacher’s shooting — created a versatile and potent offensive unit that challenged opposing defenses.
Free Agency and Future Considerations
As Nance enters unrestricted free agency, the Hawks hold his Bird Rights, granting them the ability to exceed the salary cap to re-sign him. Given his contributions both on and off the court, retaining Nance could be instrumental in maintaining the team’s cultural and strategic continuity. His veteran presence, coupled with his adaptable skill set, positions him as a valuable asset for a team aiming to develop its young core while remaining competitive.
In conclusion, Larry Nance Jr.’s 2024–25 season with the Atlanta Hawks underscored his role as a consummate professional. Through leadership, adaptability, and basketball acumen, he provided stability and guidance during a transitional period for the franchise. Whether through floor spacing, defensive reliability, or mentorship, Nance’s impact was multifaceted, making a compelling case for his continued presence in Atlanta’s future plans.