Atlanta Hawks Free Agency: Which Free Agents should the Hawks pursue?

2 of 10

CLEVELAND, OH – MAY 21: Marcus Smart #36 of the Boston Celtics reacts toward referee Bill Kennedy #55 after a play in the second half against the Cleveland Cavaliers during Game Four of the 2018 NBA Eastern Conference Finals at Quicken Loans Arena on May 21, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images) /

Marcus Smart – Restricted
SG 6’4 220 lbs Age: 24
Stats: 10.2 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 4.8 APG, 1.3 SPG
Per 36 min: 12.3Pts, 4.2Reb, 5.8 Ast
Shooting: FG: 36.7% 3PT: 30.1% FT: 72.9%

Marcus Smart is a valuable member of the Boston Celtics. His value and play are far above what stats can measure. He’s a gritty lockdown defender, who hustles all out, always. His shooting numbers could certainly improve, but Smart is the type of player that the majority of coaches would love to have. However, with the return of Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward next season, would his role be diminished in a major way?

Smart would be a phenomenal fit with the Atlanta Hawks, as he is the perfect complement to Trae Young defensively. Marcus’ ability to guard PGs, SGs, and even SFs, would allow the Atlanta Hawks to give Trae Young the least difficult matchup on defense possible. He would also give Atlanta the best secondary ball handler they’ve had since Joe Johnson.

While he doesn’t fit the Splash Brother’s South mold shooting wise, certainly there is a role for a player like Smart. The bonus he brings is veteran experience at only 24 years of age. He’s played in a whopping 43 playoff games!

In addition, he would be a great example to the young birds, on how to play with energy and tenacity. Smart is a restricted free agent, giving Boston the right to match any offer. Most likely they will, however, the Hawks’ GM can make them think twice by doing things such as front-loading the contract. I think it would be a wise play.

Verdict – The Atlanta Hawks should sign Smart to a 4 year $58 million dollar offer sheet.

Home/Atlanta Hawks