Should Atlanta Hawks Make a Phoenix-CP3 Type Move?

Wondering how the Phoenix Suns’ big acquisition could influence the Atlanta Hawks.

The first big trade of the 2020 NBA offseason went down on Monday, with the Suns picking up future Hall of Famer Chris Paul. Because I’m a selfish Atlanta Hawks fan, my first thought was, “should the Hawks do this?”

And by “this” I don’t mean trading for Chris Paul specifically. I mean making a deal like that one.

Entering this offseason, the Hawks and Suns are in similar positions. They’re both bad yet up-and-coming teams with one mega-star (Trae Young, Devin Booker) and a handful of other studs such as John Collins, Deandre Ayton and Clint Capela.

Both teams are nearing the end of their respective rebuilds and the Suns just put a hard period to theirs with the addition of CP3.

Is it a smart move? Probably yes, although his contract and age is a tad concerning. Does it make them a better team? 100 percent yes and it’s not a debate.

It’s exactly the risk-reward move that can elevate teams (think Kawhi to the Raptors) or set the franchise back years (think Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett to Brooklyn).

As for the Hawks’ options, if they do want to replicate the deal, there are not that many options. Paul is a very unique given his age, high-level of play and ability to be traded.

But there are other, reasonbly similar players that could be available via trade. Al Horford, Kevin Love, Blake Griffin and Derrick Rose are all well-paid veterans who could be on the move.

While a big, splashy move would help the Atlanta Hawks get some much-needed mainstream attention, it’s probably not the best move for the team.

Phoenix could hear the clock ticking on Devin Booker’s time in AZ and the Hawks have a bit more comfortable room with Young. If they’re still struggling to make the postseason in a few seasons, this is when you make a deal like this.

Overall I think it was a smart move for the Suns but I’m not sure I would replicate it If I were the Atlanta Hawks unless something really juicy pops up.

Do you think the Atlanta Hawks should pull off a big trade?