Atlanta Hawks: Signing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope a Possibility

With Tim Hardaway Jr. walking out the door, the possibility of signing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope becomes a real possibility.

Previously restricted free agent Kentavious Caldwell-Pope has now been renounced by the Detroit Pistons, making him available to sign and play wherever he may so choose. This comes after the Pistons also recent acquisition of Boston Celtics star guard Avery Bradley. This is clear indication that Caldwell-Pope will not be returning to the Pistons next year.

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is expected to garner interest from several teams, including the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Lakers. Some teams can throw insurmountable amounts of money at him. A team like the Atlanta Hawks has a particular advantage, because Caldwell-Pope has spent the majority of his life in the state of Georgia.

Caldwell-Pope is a product of Greenville, Georgia, where he blossomed into an elite high school recruit. He then played collegiately at the University of Georgia, where he dominated and evolved into the player we see today. A defensive maestro on the wing and an efficient three point shooter when at his best.

Tim Hardaway Jr. is gone to the New York Knicks

. While the Hawks likely aren’t looking to spend a lot of money and may be content with Kent Bazemore and DeAndre Bembry, it simply makes a lot of sense to try and bring in Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. Fitting more to the classic style of Atlanta’s system, a homecoming for Pope could translate to a complete blossoming of his game.

Next: DeAndre Bembry Shines as Hawks Lose Summer League Opener