The Atlanta Hawks have one remaining roster spot other than the two two-way slots. Most of the free agents worth signing have been signed but there are still some big names left on the table, most of which are near the end of their careers.
Since Michael Wright of NBA.com first wrote the article on the top six remaining free agents, James Harden has agreed to terms with the Philadelphia 76ers. This means that of Wright’s list, there are only five top free agents remaining, and Enes Freedom is not one of them.
The top remaining free agent is Collin Sexton. However, with the price tag that he is going to fetch, the Hawks should certainly not sign him. They would have to give up a key piece of their roster and that would risk all of the potential gains of the offseason. The Cleveland Cavaliers are going to offer him the money he wants to return, keeping their exciting backcourt together.
Should the Atlanta Hawks take a run at any of the other four top free agents?
Montrezl Harrell, who has been putting up good numbers in the AEBL could be a good addition to the Hawks squad. He is a beast inside, often causing the Hawks issues inside. However, with the Hawks looking to contend for the title, they do not need the distraction of Harrell’s off-court issues, nor could they afford the salary he will want.
LaMarcus Aldridge is 36 years old and has had significant health issues in the past few years. The Hawks have a decent rotation at the pivot and they do not need to add a player, however talented, who may not be available for them all season.
Dennis Schroder, despite being a truly amazing offensive presence to the score has the ability to hurt his team with his lack of passing. He is looking for a Los Angeles Lakers reunion with LeBron James. Given that he lost a lot of money with contract negotiation issues last season, he is going to be looking for decent money which the Hawks cannot afford to give him.
Carmelo Anthony could be an option for the Hawks if they wanted to have a reunion. The veteran brings a scoring presence off the bench which could really help the Hawks. He could also be signed at a veteran’s minimum. Anthony is probably the only remaining top free agent that the Hawks should be looking at.