A rookie out of Maryland, Fernando appeared in 45 games for the Hawks prior to the All-Star break. He started 11 of those contests, posting averages of 4.6 points and 4.8 rebounds across 15.5 minutes per game. In his NBA debut against Detroit on Oct. 24, Fernando played 14 minutes and finished with seven points, three rebounds, and two assists. Fernando missed 10 games in January and February due to a calf injury. In a Jan. 26 win over the Wizards, Fernando tallied his first career double-double, finishing with 14 points and 12 rebounds (both career highs) in 19 minutes. After the All-Star break, Fernando saw action in 11 games, averaging 14.7 minutes per contest in that span. He scored in double-figures three times, including a 10-point, nine-rebound effort against Orlando on Feb. 26. In his final game before the NBA suspended the season on Mar. 11, Fernando posted two points, two rebounds and one assist against the Knicks.