As the Atlanta Hawks look to refine their roster amidst the early stages of the NBA season, finding the right trade target has become a priority. A $36 million guard has emerged as a realistic option, potentially addressing their pressing needs on the court.
The Hawks have experienced a tumultuous start to the 2024-25 NBA season, currently ranked 20th in the league. After months of speculation surrounding their star player Trae Young, the team finally moved on from the failed pairing with Dejounte Murray. This shift has left Young as the veteran leader on a relatively young roster, which has faced its ups and downs early in the season.
Despite a promising beginning, Atlanta has hit a rough patch, suffering a four-game losing streak. This slump included disappointing losses to the struggling Washington Wizards, raising concerns about the team’s consistency and ability to compete. These setbacks have prompted questions about the effectiveness of their revamped lineup and the overall strategy moving forward.
While Atlanta has shown flashes of potential, their performance has been erratic. The reliance on Young to carry the offensive load has been evident, emphasizing the need for other players to step up. The team’s depth will be tested as they navigate through the season, particularly in high-pressure situations where young players might struggle.
Looking ahead, the Hawks must find a way to stabilize their play. They need to develop a stronger supporting cast around Young to avoid further losing streaks. Identifying reliable contributors will be crucial as the season progresses and they aim for a playoff spot.
Bleacher Report’s NBA Analysis Names D’Angelo Russell as Atlanta Hawks’ Realistic Trade Target
In the event Atlanta’s trade strategy doesn’t pan out before the deadline, there may be an option worth considering for the franchise. According to Bleacher Report’s Grant Hughes, that option can be Los Angeles Lakers guard D’Angelo Russell.
This isn’t about Russell and his expiring salary, specifically. He’s just a logical part of the return Atlanta might hope to get from the Los Angeles Lakers if they trade Young. Ideally, Russell would come aboard in a package that also includes first-round assets and some matching salary.
Maybe you don’t think Young belongs in any trade scenario, let alone realistic ones. But the last few years of intermittent speculation and the Hawks’ current “caught in the middle” predicament say otherwise.
The Hawks may consider acquiring Russell from the Lakers. As a logical addition, his skills could complement the roster, especially if they opt to trade Trae Young. This move would ideally include first-round assets to bolster their future.
Russell’s expiring contract allows for flexibility, making it a feasible option for both teams. By pursuing this trade, Atlanta could effectively address their current needs while positioning themselves for a stronger long-term strategy in the competitive NBA landscape.
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