Luke Kennard Signs with Atlanta Hawks: A New Chapter in an Impressive NBA Journey

Less than a week after celebrating his 29th birthday, Luke Kennard, the talented left-handed guard known for his sharpshooting and versatility, has officially signed with the Atlanta Hawks, marking the beginning of his ninth season in the NBA. This new chapter in Kennard’s professional career is loaded with potential and anticipation, both for him and the Hawks organization. But to truly appreciate the significance of this move, we must dive deep into Luke Kennard’s journey — from his collegiate days at Duke, through his NBA career to date, and what he brings to Atlanta as the team looks to build its roster around key stars.

Luke Kennard was born on June 24, 1996, in Middletown, Ohio. From an early age, Kennard showed a remarkable aptitude for basketball, especially with his shooting touch. Standing at 6-foot-5 with a slender frame, his build suggested a player more suited to finesse and skill rather than brute strength or athleticism, but it was his technical skills that set him apart.

Kennard’s journey gained national attention when he committed to Duke University, one of college basketball’s most storied programs. Playing under legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski, Kennard’s time at Duke (2015-2017) saw him develop into one of the most efficient scorers in the NCAA. In his sophomore year, he averaged an impressive 19.5 points per game while shooting over 40% from beyond the arc. His ability to score from all three levels — beyond the arc, midrange, and at the rim — made him a coveted prospect for NBA teams.

Kennard declared for the NBA Draft after his sophomore season and was selected 12th overall by the Detroit Pistons in the 2017 NBA Draft. Expectations were high for the left-handed guard, and while he wasn’t an immediate superstar, he steadily carved out a niche as a reliable role player and shooter.

During his time with the Pistons, Kennard demonstrated his ability to stretch defenses and provide valuable spacing. His shooting accuracy, especially from three-point range, made him a vital asset in a league increasingly emphasizing perimeter shooting. While his scoring averages fluctuated, Kennard’s presence on the floor helped his teams maintain offensive balance and rhythm.

Kennard’s style of play is often characterized by his quick release, solid footwork, and ability to create space. Though not known for elite athleticism or defensive dominance, he made up for it with basketball IQ and off-ball movement. This made him a sought-after player for teams looking to bolster their bench scoring and floor spacing.

After four seasons in Detroit, Kennard was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers in 2021. This move offered him a fresh start on a contending team with superstar wings like Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. While his minutes were somewhat limited compared to his Pistons days, Kennard embraced his role as a key rotation player off the bench.

In Los Angeles, Kennard improved not only his shooting but also his defensive effort, working to become a more complete two-way player. His ability to hit clutch shots in tight playoff games earned him respect among teammates and coaches alike. This phase of his career was marked by growth, maturity, and a clearer understanding of how to impact winning games.

Now, as Kennard signs with the Atlanta Hawks for his ninth NBA season, the basketball world watches with interest. The Hawks, a team led by star guard Trae Young, have been searching for the right complementary pieces to push deeper into the playoffs. Kennard’s ability to shoot and space the floor fits perfectly into the Hawks’ offensive philosophy.

For Kennard, this signing represents not just another contract but an opportunity to assert himself as a veteran leader on a team with championship aspirations. Atlanta’s system, which heavily emphasizes ball movement and perimeter shooting, is an ideal environment for Kennard’s skill set

Luke Kennard’s game is fundamentally built around shooting. His career three-point shooting percentage hovers around the mid- to high-40s percentile — a testament to his consistency and efficiency. Kennard’s quick release allows him to get shots off even when closely guarded, making him a constant threat on the perimeter.

Beyond shooting, Kennard is a crafty offensive player who excels in catch-and-shoot situations and can also create off the dribble when needed. He often uses screens effectively to free himself and is adept at moving without the ball, finding open spots to receive passes.

Defensively, while not a lockdown defender, Kennard has improved his awareness and effort, using his length and positioning to contest shots and disrupt passing lanes. His commitment to defense has grown each year, making him a more well-rounded contributor on both ends of the court.

Over eight seasons, Kennard has played in over 500 NBA games, averaging roughly 10-12 points per game. He has demonstrated consistent improvement, particularly in shooting percentages and free-throw accuracy. His career best season came during the 2019-2020 campaign with the Pistons, where he averaged 13.1 points and shot 44.5% from three.

Kennard’s playoff experience, though somewhat limited due to playing on rebuilding teams early in his career, has also shown flashes of brilliance. In the 2021 playoffs with the Clippers, he was a dependable scorer off the bench, contributing valuable points in key moments.

Aside from his on-court skills, Kennard is known for his professionalism, work ethic, and positive locker room presence. As a veteran entering his ninth season, he brings maturity and experience that can benefit younger players. His calm demeanor and team-first mentality are qualities that coaches and teammates appreciate.

Atlanta, having seen the importance of chemistry and cohesion during their recent playoff runs, likely views Kennard as a piece that can integrate seamlessly into their culture. His presence provides both a reliable scoring option and a mentor figure for emerging talent.

While Kennard’s signing is promising, it comes with expectations. The Hawks will expect him to maintain his shooting efficiency and contribute meaningful minutes. Additionally, further defensive improvements could elevate his overall impact, especially in high-stakes playoff games where every possession counts.

There is also the challenge of staying healthy and consistent. Kennard has had some minor injury setbacks in the past, but maintaining peak physical condition will be vital for maximizing his contributions.

Luke Kennard’s signing with the Atlanta Hawks symbolizes more than just a player changing teams. It marks a veteran athlete ready to embrace new challenges, contribute to a competitive roster, and continue his personal evolution as an NBA professional. For Kennard, this move could be the catalyst for some of his best basketball yet.

As the Hawks gear up for the upcoming season, adding a reliable, proven shooter like Kennard boosts their offensive arsenal and overall depth. For fans, it offers excitement and hope that the team can build around their star core and make a serious push for an NBA title.

With his ninth season underway, Luke Kennard stands poised to add new chapters to an already impressive career. The journey from Duke to Detroit, Los Angeles, and now Atlanta reflects a player dedicated to growth, excellence, and the love of the game — traits that will serve him well as he embarks on this promising new chapter.