What happened: The Hawks are experimenting with their rotation during the preseason. Lu Dort is being deployed at power forward whenever Jalen Johnson is off the floor. The veteran has maintained that spot even in units featuring Newell at center.

Why it matters: The alignment provides an early glimpse into how Atlanta plans to stagger its frontcourt. Playing Dort as an undersized four allows the team to keep a versatile defender on the court while resting its key contributors. The strategy also creates a pathway for Newell to earn frontcourt minutes rather than competing directly for time at power forward.

What to watch: The coaching staff will continue evaluating these rotational tweaks as the preseason progresses. The remaining exhibition schedule will clarify if this deployment becomes a permanent strategy.