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Atlanta Hawks: Reaction from Ersan Ilyasova trade

By Matthew Brothers

Feb 13, 2017; Charlotte, NC, USA; Philadelphia 76ers forward Ersan Ilyasova (7) shoots a three-point shot in the first half against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 13, 2017; Charlotte, NC, USA; Philadelphia 76ers forward Ersan Ilyasova (7) shoots a three-point shot in the first half against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /
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With the Hawks netting Ersan Ilyasova in a trade with Philly, where does this leave them for the stretch run?

Late last night Atlanta acquired  Ersan Ilyasova in exchange for Tiago Splitter, a 2017 second round pick(from Miami), and the right to swap 2017 second round picks as well. For a Hawks team in desperate need of front court shooting, this deal seems like a win for Atlanta. All in all, Philly relieved a logjam in the front court with the Hawks getting a hopefully valuable piece during the playoff run.

The Atlanta Side.

Feb 18, 2017; New Orleans, LA, USA; Eastern Conference forward Paul Millsap of the Atlanta Hawks (4) during the NBA All-Star Practice at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 18, 2017; New Orleans, LA, USA; Eastern Conference forward Paul Millsap of the Atlanta Hawks (4) during the NBA All-Star Practice at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /

For the 76ers this season Ersan is averaging 14.3 points and almost six rebounds a game. He provides another stretch forward presence along with Paul Millsap that the Hawks sorely needed. He has the ability to complement Paul together on the floor or provide a spark off the bench. To be honest, the only three point threats from the Atlanta front court comes in the form of Millsap and Mike Muscala. Having another option to stretch the floor with is essential for the playoff stretch. The fact that Ilyasova comes at a relatively low price is simply icing on the cake. With this the final year of his deal, if things don’t work out there is no long-term commitment as well.

The Philadelphia Side.

The 76ers’ side is pretty clear cut as well. Philadelphia wants to provide more minutes for their young bigs, most notably in this case, Dario Saric. Ridding themselves of Ersan Ilyasova helps them clear extra minutes and cap space. I believe taking on the contract of Tiago Splitter seems simply a formality. The 76ers’ will possibly waive him but nothing is decided at this point. Also, it’s no secret Philly has been acquiring picks over the last few years so wanting two second rounders is no surprise.

Next: Atlanta Braves: An Off-season Look

This trade is a classic win-win scenario. With relatively low cost on both sides it absolutely helps both organizations. The Hawks stated they would be buyers and they did not disappoint. Angling towards the playoffs, Ersan Ilyasova should certainly help the Hawks in their quest to win a championship.

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