Atlanta Hawks Trade Probabilities at the Deadline
By Chris Guest
Mike Muscala: 25% Chance – Mike Muscala is a Hawks lifer, and he has had some great moments with the team – drilling a game-tying three against the Washington Wizards in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals in the 2015 playoffs being first among them. But basketball is a business and Muscala’s expiring and cheap contract could serve a few teams well going forward.
The only thing holding this back is Muscala’s health, which was affected for almost two months by a mysterious ankle issue. It seems to be fixed now at least, and Muscala is shooting a lights-out 47.7 percent from deep – something all teams could use from a backup big man.
Dewayne Dedmon: 40% Chance – Dedmon has been terrific in his first season in Atlanta, and he might be rewarded with a trade to a playoff-bound team if the right offer is on the table. It has been reported that the Hawks are looking for a first-round pick in return for Dedmon, though that is almost certainly too rich for many teams. Either way, Dedmon is a great rebounder and finisher in the paint, and he has even proven to be a viable stretch five in today’s three-pointer-obsessed landscape.
Kent Bazemore: 40% Chance – As outline at length here, rumors surround Kent Bazemore and a possible move to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Numerous teams should be interested in Baze’s services, as he has improved in almost every facet of the game since he came into the league 6 seasons ago. Though his huge contract might be prohibitive for some teams, others would just be happy to get a two-way wing with good defensive instincts and a slick three-point stroke.
Malcolm Delaney: 45% Chance – Delaney is a steadfast basketball veteran who was undrafted out of college, played overseas and finally got his chance with the Hawks last season. Delaney has improved on almost all fronts since last season, when he just couldn’t quite find his role.
This season, he has excelled as Dennis Schröder’s backup – propelling the team with his pass-first ways, intelligent offensive decision-making and stout defense. Many teams could employ Delaney’s palatable skill set and expiring, inexpensive contract. Don’t be surprised if Delaney is gone by this deadline.