Atlanta Hawks: Examining recent trade rumors

CLEVELAND, OH - OCTOBER 21: Kevin Love #0 of the Cleveland Cavaliers grabs a rebound over Kent Bazemore #24 and Alex Len #25 of the Atlanta Hawks during the second half at Quicken Loans Arena on October 21, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Hawks defeated the Cavaliers 133-111. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OH - OCTOBER 21: Kevin Love #0 of the Cleveland Cavaliers grabs a rebound over Kent Bazemore #24 and Alex Len #25 of the Atlanta Hawks during the second half at Quicken Loans Arena on October 21, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Hawks defeated the Cavaliers 133-111. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
1 of 2
Next
Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images
Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images /

A number of high-impact players around the league have been rumored to be available for trade. Do any of them make sense for the Atlanta Hawks to make a move on?

It’s no secret the the Atlanta Hawks could use some help. With a 6-27 record, the Hawks boast the worst record in the NBA. The most probable outcome for their season would be sticking to the bottom of the standings and hoping to win the elusive first overall pick.

However, if Atlanta decides that they want to make a run at the eighth seed and make a playoff appearance now that John Collins is back, they have large, moveable salaries, young talent, and picks that could make most deals a reality.

It’s time to examine these rumors and decide if the players would be a good fit on the Atlanta Hawks.

Kevin Love

It the Hawks wanted Kevin Love, a trade would likely involve one of the team’s large contracts, a young player, and a second round pick or two.

You might notice this is almost identical to a proposed Steven Adams trade from Soaring Down South. Adams and Love have very similar contracts, and to be honest, acquiring Stevens would help the Hawks tremendously more.

The Hawks need size in the paint that can play defense and hit shots. Kevin Love is one of the best offensive bigs and rebounders in the league, but his defense isn’t good enough to make a real difference for the Hawks. If Atlanta is looking to bring in a big and they’re willing to pay him over $25,000,00, Adams has to be the top priority.

The Hawks should steer clear of Kevin Love.

Jrue Holiday

Unlike many trades to acquire a veteran, a Jrue Holiday trade could work very well for the Atlanta Hawks. Any potential trade would likely include salary filler, a good young player, and draft pick(s).

Parsons would serve as salary filler and could potentially be a shooting asset to space the floor for Zion Williamson, whenever he returns from injury. Parker isn’t as vital to the Hawks’ “success” now that John Collins has rejoined the team. Hopefully Atlanta could sell Parker’s success from the first quarter of the season to another team.

E’Twaun Moore would probably not see too much on-court action with the Hawks, but New Orleans might be more willing to accept this deal knowing Atlanta would be eating up Moore’s generous salary.

Jrue Holiday is one of the best two-way players in the league. His shooting isn’t anything to write home about, but Holiday averages 19.7 points and 6.5 assists per game. His real calling card is on defense, however. For the Hawks, Holiday could cover for Trae Young on the perimeter defensively while also hopefully instilling good habits and fundamentals in the young Hawks.

If the Hawks have a shot at Holiday, they should take it.