Four Realistic Free Agent Signings for Hawks

Isaiah Thomas

Now hear me out on this one.

No player has lost more money in the past calendar year than IT. After being well on his way to a max contract with the Celtics, he sustained an injury which not only ended his season, but also his tenure in Boston.

Whether because of his departure from the coaching wizardry of Brad Stevens and Boston, or because of his lingering injuries, Thomas didn’t come close to recapturing the magic from last year. In fact, he was pretty bad for the Cavs before being traded to LA and played a bit better there, but still not up to his standards set in Boston.

Now, after another season-ending injury, the relentless scorer will most likely be looking for a new team this July.

Why would the Hawks want him? And would he even want to go to Atlanta? First off, IT may be in desperation mode this offseason, and while he may get a minimum offer from a contender, he is still seeking his first big paycheck, and according to the aftermath of the trade to the Lakers, his agent is adamant that will be a starter.

Taking a one-year, “prove-it” deal similar to what Nerlens Noel did last season (which didn’t really work out for him) might be Thomas’s only move, and Atlanta could be the perfect place for him to show that he still has a place in the league.

Dennis Schröder was reportedly on the trade block at the trade deadline, and it’s unclear if Schlenk thinks he’s the Hawks’ point guard of the future. All that to say, if they flip him for assets this offseason, it would open up a starting spot for Thomas.

Atlanta could be interested in providing the point guard a stage for his comeback for three main reasons. First, if Schlenk is serious about staying competitive through the rebuild, Thomas could be a competent player to help keep games close while they develop their young talent more. Second, attendance in Phillips Arena is dismal and a marquee player like Thomas is bound to draw in more ticket sales. Lastly, if he does end up playing well again, he could be a decent trade piece they can flip into more assets for the future.

Next: Atlanta Hawks Mock Draft 3.0

Overall, it might not be ideal for the Washington product, but taking a “prove-it” deal in Atlanta could end up being a realistic spot, even if just for one year.