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Atlanta Hawks: Potential Trade Deadline Targets

By Matthew Brothers

Feb 13, 2017; Portland, OR, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Kent Bazemore (24) dribbles past Portland Trail Blazers forward Maurice Harkless (4) during the fourth quarter at the Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Craig Mitchelldyer-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 13, 2017; Portland, OR, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Kent Bazemore (24) dribbles past Portland Trail Blazers forward Maurice Harkless (4) during the fourth quarter at the Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Craig Mitchelldyer-USA TODAY Sports /
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In perhaps a surprising twist, the Atlanta Hawks have decided they will be buyers of sorts at the upcoming trade deadline.

Atlanta is in a tough position right now. While it seems the Hawks will look to improve the current roster, the cost needs to be right. The trade deadline officially ends on the 23rd and you can expect at least one move from the Atlanta Hawks.

The Hawks would be best served adding a true backup center or a guard/forward with shooting touch. All in all, adding a veteran is always a good idea, but it is possible that the Hawks have more up their sleeve before Thursday.

Feb 15, 2017; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Deron Williams (8) takes a shot over Detroit Pistons center Andre Drummond (0) during the fourth quarter at The Palace of Auburn Hills. The Pistons won 98-91. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 15, 2017; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Deron Williams (8) takes a shot over Detroit Pistons center Andre Drummond (0) during the fourth quarter at The Palace of Auburn Hills. The Pistons won 98-91. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports /

One name that has been mentioned over the last few days is Deron Williams. Williams is a solid veteran on a Mavericks’ team that likely won’t reach the playoffs. Atlanta could add him likely for a second rounder and relieving a Mavs’ team of his contract. Deron is a solid vet and a scorer that can still contribute down this stretch run. He could provide relief on the ball for Dennis and Malcolm and provide a scoring threat. Williams could be a probable option for the Atlanta Hawks to end up adding simply because of the relatively low cost.

Another vet the Hawks might potentially be looking at is P.J Tucker. P.J is a lower cost option compared to Williams while still providing a scoring threat. I believe a player like him would thrive in the Hawks system designed to spread the floor. I could also see a player like Randy Foye or Gerald Henderson filling a similar role as well.

Bringing in a center could perhaps be slightly more complicated. The 76ers have a logjam in the front court and have considered moving either Nerlens Noel or Jahlil Okafor. Bringing in a productive big man is always a bonus, but at what cost? It would certainly take at least one first round pick and someone like Malcolm or Mike Muscala. In any sort, for the Hawks to truly compete in the east something drastic has to take place.

In general, a huge blockbuster deal is unlikely. Surpassing a team like Cleveland or Boston will be very tough. Grabbing a veteran at low cost helps but all in all it might not be enough. Acquiring a star will take a lot but if Atlanta wants to contend its the only option. The roster at this point isn’t enough. With only days until the deadline it’s now or never for the Atlanta Hawks.

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