A look at the Atlanta Hawks’ Williams/Nogueira trade

With the news breaking that the Atlanta Hawks are shipping Lou Williams up north in exchange for John Salmons, just like in every every trade, the first thought into the minds who follow and care about either team is “who got the better end of the bargin?”

While neither team is getting a spring chicken (Williams has been in the Association for nine years while Salmons has played for 12), it is a guard for guard deal, and the Hawks send rights of their 2013 first round draft pick, Lucas Nogueira, for a future Raptor’s second round selection. Salmons is a journeyman and started zero of the 60 games he played in last year, but he did average 21+ minutes per game. His highest scoring season in recent memory came in 2010/11 with the Milwaukee Bucks, when he averaged an even 14 points, but he’s averaged less than 10 in every season since, and averaged five points last season.

At first look, the Raptors seem to get the better end of the deal–Williams averaged more points, rebounds and assists last year, as well as started more games and played more on the floor. Plus, Toronto gets Nogueria, who the Hawks were really high on and wanted to take their time with.

But, not so fast my friend. Upon further review, the Hawks are clearing a ton of cap space, as the Hawks have the option to waive Salmons and his $7 million deal, which would only leave the Hawks owing $1 million. So, the final verdict can’t be made for now, and might need a year or two to decide.

Now, let the fun begin. LeBron and Melo to the Highlight Factory?