Southeast Notes: Hawks Employee Indictment, Young, Larsson, Ball

A former Atlanta Hawks employee, Lester Jones, has been charged with fraud and embezzling $3.8 million from the franchise, according to an indictment from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia, as reported by The Athletic. Jones, who served as the team’s senior vice president of financial planning and analysis, allegedly used corporate credit cards to pay for personal expenses, including trips to destinations such as the Bahamas, Hawaii, Thailand, and Switzerland, the purchase of a Porsche, and tickets to concerts and events. He was also involved in a romantic relationship with another team employee and purportedly bought her expensive gifts using corporate funds. Evidence of these alleged crimes emerged through a team-backed audit, and Jones pleaded not guilty, being released on a $10,000 bond last week.

In updates on the Southeast Division, Trae Young is described as a top point guard with strong offensive capabilities, including leading in assists and scoring, which aids his role as a closer, and he is wished a speedy recovery from a knee injury. The Hawks are praised for acquiring Dyson, who is highlighted as one of their best moves, showcasing excellent defense, positional size, and development into a special player. In a recent game without Trae Young, the Hawks secured a significant win, with Dyson contributing 35 minutes, 18 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 steals, and an 86.9% field goal percentage. Additionally, Bridges is noted for playing effectively alongside Brunson, with both players handling tougher defensive assignments. The Orlando Magic are mentioned as undergoing changes but still being a well-regarded team.