Tim Hardaway Jr shows progress in D-League stint

It would be somewhat of an understatement to say that Tim Hardaway Jr's Atlanta Hawks career has gotten off to a rough start. However, there is finally something positive to report after his latest stint in the D-League.

Hardaway turned in his second straight efficient performance on Wednesday finishing with 18 points in 16 minutes off the bench for the Austin Spurs in a win over the Santa Cruz Warriors. Hardaway was 5-for-8 from the field and 5-for-6 from the free throw line. That performance came one day after Hardaway knocked down six three-pointers and 30 points in his debut in Austin.

Hardaway has only appeared in four games this season for the Hawks and hasn't played since early November. Mike Budenholzer has continued to praise his attitude and work ethic despite what has to be a disappointing situation for him.

The Hawks assigned Walter Tavares to Austin late on Wednesday and he was also in uniform for the Spurs against Santa Cruz. Tavares struggled a bit offensively finishing with just five points on 1-of-5 shooting and was just 3-of-6 from the free throw line, but he grabbed 13 rebounds and was credited with four blocked shots while altering numerous others.

Tavares played his first meaningful minutes of the season for the Hawks in Tuesday's come from behind win over the Rockets. He appears to be making good progress and Atlanta continues to utilize the D-League as a means to get him on the court.