The Atlanta Hawks were a speculated landing spot for Jaylen Brown before the star forward was dealt to the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for Paul George and an underwhelming group of picks. For Boston, the deal remains a bit of a mystery, punting on a star at the peak of his powers in exchange for an aging George, who is far removed from his prime seasons. Looking from Atlanta's perspective, it is hard not to see this as a clear fumble in what would've put the Hawks in the discussion as a clear contender.
Brown is from Georgia and has been noted for repping the Braves and showing signs that returning home to Atlanta would've been an unquestionable fit. It is hard to understand how the Hawks were unwilling to match a deal that sees the Celtics gaining a group of picks and an aging star that Philadelphia was clearly desperate to move away from.
George not only struggled over the last two seasons but has also dealt with a suspension and injury issues, making his ability to stay on the court a clear question mark. This is what the Hawks were competing against and unwilling to match.
While betting on a young core is understandable, we have seen variations of this over the last decade, turning the clock all the way back to the days of Paul Millsap and the team-first Hawks. This attitude remained through the Trae Young days, leading us to the most recent version of a Hawks team built around clear talent but lacking the needed star to put away a game.
Hawks Fumbled Clear Opportunity to Answer Biggest Weakness Missing Out on Jaylen Brown
Brown would've stepped into Atlanta and been the adult in the room as an NBA Finals MVP and a proven playoff performer. There wouldn't be any questioning whether or not the Hawks had a player capable of taking over and matching an opposing team's best player, or who was deserving of getting the ball when the game mattered most.
Instead, the Hawks not only continue to have this problem but are now looking at a clear contender in the Philadelphia 76ers. The team's starting lineup is unquestionably lethal if healthy and playing as the best version of themselves.
It is another piece for Boston that remains a mystery, as the franchise appeared content to turn to what is a supposed rival and make them far better with the addition of Brown. A missed opportunity for Atlanta, leaving room to wonder if the Hawks are gearing up for another mediocre season.
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