The Atlanta Hawks, facing a challenging season with a disappointing 14-19 record, are seemingly ready to initiate a significant roster shake-up as the NBA trade deadline approaches.
As per Jake Fischer of Yahoo! Sports, the organization is prepared to entertain trade offers for most of its roster, with the notable exceptions of All-Star guard Trae Young and emerging forward Jalen Johnson. This move indicates a major shift in the team’s strategy and hints at an extensive overhaul to revitalize the franchise.
Atlanta Hawks to Retain Jalen Johnson and Trae Young
Trae Young’s status as untouchable is unsurprising, given his stature as the franchise star. However, the inclusion of Jalen Johnson as another untouchable player reflects the Hawks’ confidence in his potential. Johnson, only 22, is in the midst of a breakout season, showcasing significant improvement as a two-way player, especially in his offensive game.
Jalen Johnson’s Breakout Season
Jalen Johnson’s ascent is particularly noteworthy considering the departure of John Collins. His enhanced performance is evident in his year-by-year comparison, showing remarkable growth in scoring, rebounding, and assisting. His recent career-high 28-point game is a testament to his evolving skillset and his potential to be a cornerstone for the Hawks’ future.
Atlanta Hawks’ Season in Disarray
Atlanta Hawks’ Current Struggles
The optimism that surrounded the Hawks at the beginning of the season has dwindled. The team’s current standing and performance suggest that they might be more inclined to sell than buy as the trade deadline looms. The Hawks have several long-term contracts that could be moved to facilitate a rebuild or retool for the upcoming seasons.
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Dejounte Murray and Other Veterans on the Trade Block
Dejounte Murray, despite being a notable acquisition, has become a prominent name in trade discussions. The backcourt pairing of Murray and Young has not yielded the expected results, particularly on the defensive end. Murray, along with Clint Capela and possibly Bogdan Bogdanović, are among the veterans who could be moved to reshape the Hawks’ roster.
The Atlanta Hawks’ Defensive Woes
Atlanta’s defensive struggles have been a significant concern, with the team ranking low in defensive rating and opponents’ points per game. Lineups featuring both Young and Murray have not been effective, prompting the Hawks to consider changes.
Looking Ahead: The Atlanta Hawks’ Future
Retooling Around Trae Young and Jalen Johnson
The Hawks’ approach to the trade deadline will be pivotal in shaping the team’s future. While not necessarily a complete rebuild, the Hawks seem focused on retooling their roster around Young and Johnson. This strategy involves moving veterans to acquire assets that align better with the team’s new direction.
Potential Trade Scenarios
With the trade deadline fast approaching, the Atlanta Hawks are expected to be active in the market. The outcome of these trades will be crucial in determining the team’s trajectory and ability to compete in the coming seasons.
The End of an Era?
As the Atlanta Hawks prepare to potentially part ways with key players, it marks the end of a specific era for the team. However, with Young and Johnson at the core, the Hawks are poised to embark on a new chapter, aiming to return to contention in the Eastern Conference.
