Even though they reached the Eastern Conference Finals years ago, the Atlanta Hawks were never considered a legitimate contender in the league. That could all change if they trade for Denver Nuggets forward Michael Porter Jr., as suggested by a recent NBA analysis.
As the 2024-2025 NBA season approaches, ESPN’s Basketball Power Index (BPI) has released projections indicating a challenging year for the Atlanta Hawks. Currently, the BPI predicts the Hawks will finish with a 37-45 record, placing them in a tie for the 10th spot in the Eastern Conference alongside the Charlotte Hornets. This projection aligns with many preseason expectations, as the team’s current win total is set at 36.5.
While the Hawks boast standout talent like Trae Young, who has the potential to elevate the offense significantly, the BPI ranks them as having the 14th-best offense in the league. With Young taking on a larger role following the departure of Dejounte Murray, there are hopes that he can drive a more potent attack. However, questions remain about the overall shooting and depth around him.
Defensively, the Hawks face greater challenges, with BPI projecting them to have the third-worst defense in the NBA. Despite last season’s struggles on this end, recent roster changes, including the addition of Dyson Daniels and Larry Nance, aim to improve their defensive capabilities. The Hawks have also focused on increasing their size and length, which could help mitigate past issues.
With the season starting soon, the Hawks’ performance will be under close scrutiny. Fans and analysts alike will be eager to see if these projections hold true or if the team can defy expectations and make a stronger push for playoff contention.
NBA Analysis Urges Atlanta Hawks To Trade For One-Time NBA Champion Michael Porter Jr.
Trading for Porter can elevate the Hawks, especially when it comes to their offense. This is explored in detail by Andy Bailey in his analysis for Bleacher Report.
Stephen Curry, Desmond Bane and Klay Thompson are the only players in NBA history who match or exceed both of MPJ’s career marks in three-point attempts per game (5.9) and three-point percentage (41.0).
And Atlanta may have an intriguing trade package to go get him. Denver would likely have to send out another small contract and would likely insist on getting some draft capital back, but the Hawks could improve the Nuggets’ depth with Nikola Jokić’s countryman Bogdan Bogdanović and a reserve forward in Hunter.
Moving forward with a starting five of Young, Risacher, Porter, Johnson and Clint Capela (or Onyeka Okongwu) would raise Atlanta’s ceiling.
The Hawks are exploring a significant trade to bolster their roster following disappointing preseason performances. General Manager Landry Fields has acknowledged the need for improvement, with Michael Porter Jr. of the Denver Nuggets emerging as a potential target.
Porter, a skilled shooter averaging 16.7 points and 39.7% from three-point range last season, could enhance the Hawks’ offensive capabilities. However, his injury history raises concerns, making this an ambitious and potentially costly move. Ultimately, the Hawks must weigh the risks and financial implications before pursuing this trade.
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