8 Early Potential Free Agent Signings for the Atlanta Hawks

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ATLANTA, GEORGIA – MARCH 06: DeMar DeRozan #10 of the San Antonio Spurs drives against Kevin Huerter #3 of the Atlanta Hawks in the second half at State Farm Arena on March 06, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. 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 Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

DeMar DeRozan

As mentioned earlier, this is not the usual free agency class with loads of superstars. Anthony Davis is the lone big ticket item, and he seems way too happy in L.A to consider moving.

After a significant drop off there are a few other All-Star caliber players, including a four-time selection in DeMar DeRozan. If the Atlanta Hawks cash out and make a splash this summer, I think DeRozan is the most likely candidate.

The ever-capable scorer would be a very intriguing fit next to Trae Young in the backcourt. He’s still among the NBA’s best when it comes to creating his own shot, giving Atlanta two very dangerous guards.

DeRozan has essentially given up on a three-point ball since joining the Spurs, but in Atlanta he would finally not be the first option on offense night in and night out. It could open the doors to more catch-and-shoot threes, which he drained over 31 percent of in ’17-’18 with the Raptors.

He’s a so-so defender whose output on that end usually depends on his effort level. That’s not a great fit with Atlatna’s already lackluster defense, but doubling down and becoming a true offensive team is interesting. It doesn’t matter how much the other team scores if you out-score them.

DeRozan owns a player option for next season, but with San Antonio looking ready to start a rebuild, it wouldn’t be surprising for him to opt out. He should be able to get around the $27 million the player option would net him on the open market, perhaps via the Hawks.