Atlanta Hawks Claim Center Gustavo Ayon
Dec 21, 2012; Toronto, ON, Canada; Orlando Magic forward Gustavo Ayon (19) positions himself for a rebound against the Toronto Raptors at the Air Canada Centre. The Raptors beat the Magic 93-90. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports
According to Robby Kalland of Peachtree Hoops, the Atlanta Hawks have made yet another front court addition to the team by claiming center Gustavo Ayon off of waivers:
With this move, it seems like the Hawks have all but solidified their front court, but of course, I thought that was the case after they signed center/power forward Pero Antic. The frontcourt should be pretty much set now with five power forward/centers currently on the roster in Al Horford, Paul Millsap, Elton Brand, Pero Antic, and now Gustavo Ayon.
What this deal does do for us is clear up some of the confusion with Lucas Nogueira and what his role with the team is going to be next year. With so many players in the front court it seems likely that Lucas will have no real role on the NBA team and the front office will be patient with him and try and develop him into a future star–which is the right move.
Here is what Kris Willis had to say about this matter on Peach Tree Hoops:
"This move could further signal that first round pick Lucas Nogueira won’t be joining the club this season. Atlanta’s frontcourt is quickly getting crowded with the additions of Paul Millsap, Elton Brand, Pero Antic and now Ayon this summer in addition to the drafting of Nogueira and second round pick Mike Muscala."
Ayon looks to be a depth only type of player with career averages of 4.8 PPG and 4.3 RPG. What do you guys think about the move?