Report: Collins frustrated with Hawks role

Atlanta Hawks forward John Collins is growing increasingly frustrated with his role on the team, sources told The Athletic's Shams Charania.

Collins wants the Hawks to play team basketball and increase their defensive urgency, but he feels his pleas are often brushed aside.

"I've banged my head on the wall a couple of times trying to figure it out myself. There’s really no excuse," Collins told The Athletic's Chris Kirschner after Atlanta's loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Jan. 7.

He added, "It's unacceptable and we have to dig down and do the things necessary to win or this is going to be the result every night."

Collins averages 17.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game. His field-goal attempts and field-goal percentage have decreased for a third straight season. The 24-year-old signed a five-year, $125-million contract extension in the summer and is eligible for trade Jan. 15.

Atlanta's defense struggled mightily in recent weeks, contributing to the team's disappointing 17-22 record.