The Atlanta Hawks' attention will shift to the upcoming offseason after the team's frustrating flameout in the NBA play-in. Atlanta was given two chances against the Orlando Magic and Miami Heat, but both times, the moment was too big for a team that simply didn't have answers.
One notable Hawk that stands out as a piece the team should move away from is Caris LeVert. The Hawks acquired the veteran in a surprise deadline deal that sent De'Andre Hunter to Cleveland.
LaVert had a strong impact off the bench and was a much-needed scoring source at the end of the regular season. However, the play-in games demonstrated why the Hawks need to move on and what the team is lacking to take a step forward.
Atlanta must move on from Caris LeVert, using their cap space to add a reliable second option
A lot about Atlanta's offseason is going to be decided by how Trae Young views Atlanta. If the veteran point guard does want to remain with the franchise, now is the time for the Hawks to push their chips to the center of the table.
The Eastern Conference is wide open as Boston and Cleveland are both starting to face tough decisions. If the Hawks are going to win with Young as a centerpiece, now is the time the team must make a splashy move.
This is why LeVert simply cannot factor into Atlanta's future plans. The veteran is taking shots that would be better given to young pieces or an established second scorer. LeVert shoots without conscience, as the play-in so perfectly demonstrates. At times, it works in the veteran's favor; yet, when the games matter most, it isn't a winning brand of basketball.
It is the reason the Cavs were so comfortable moving off LeVert and taking on Hunter's contract. Caris LeVert is scheduled to hit free agency and the Hawks should allow the veteran to find a new landing spot. Whether it is going all in on Trae Young and making a push to contend, or trading the point guard and resetting to their young core, LeVert doesn't fit either timeline.
It is time for the Hawks to stop accepting mediocrity and decide which path they are going to take. Neither should involve reuniting with a soon-to-be free agent, Caris LeVert.