Atlanta Hawks: The Best (Realistic) Off-Season Trade Targets

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PORTLAND, OREGON – FEBRUARY 23: CJ McCollum #3 of the Portland Trail Blazers reacts in the first quarter against the Detroit Pistons during their game at Moda Center on February 23, 2020 in Portland, Oregon. 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 Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /

Player Two: CJ McCollum

While Trae and Buddy would create a dynamic backcourt, Young and CJ McCollum would be even better together. That also means they would have to give up more, however.

The Blazers have continually tried and failed to get over the hump with Damian Lillard and McCollum running the show, and it might be time for Portland to try something else before Dame gets too old.

The trade would give the Blazers a young forward and Clint Capela, who can be a better version of what Hassan Whiteside was for them this year. They can pick up another young stud with the pick (which is guaranteed to be in the top eight) or use it as a piece to flip it into another player.

It puts the Hawks back in the market for a center but they should be able to find at least an average center in free agency or in another trade.

The offensive firepower McCollum would bring would be worth it, and the 28-year-old who averaged 22.5 points per game last year is still in his prime. In the weaker Eastern Conference, it’s easy to imagine CJ making an All-Star game or two with the Hawks.