Atlanta Hawks head coach Mike Budenholzer has confirmed that Kent Bazemore will start the season opener against the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday night.
Budenholzer has been forced to change his plans for the new season following the departure of DeMarre Carroll, who entered free agency and eventually signed for the Toronto Raptors in the summer.
It left the Hawks with a spot to fill at small forward after a 60-win campaign, and the responsibility will be given to Bazemore as he prepares for his second year with the team.
"He is one of those guys who brings an edge, an energy, and hopefully it fits well with our team," Budenholzer told reporters. "We love how competitive his is and the edge he plays with. It really has a big impact on the group."
Bazemore averaged 5.2 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.0 assist per game in his season with the Hawks.
