This Brooklyn Nets trade could help the Atlanta Hawks

Why the Atlanta Hawks would agree to this trade with the Brooklyn Nets.

First and foremost, the Hawks would get the millstone contract of Collins off their books, giving them a greater level of freedom moving forward. Yes, Bridges is on the same length of deal but Collins showed, particularly in the playoffs, that he is not worth his deal in the current Hawks system.

With Bridges, they get another two-way player who, with the exception of his passing, has some NBA pundits comparing his potential to that of Kawhi Leonard. His ability to score was on display with the Nets, and he has always been a high-energy, quality defender. His relative lack of playmaking is nullified by the fact that the Hawks have two All-Start caliber guards.

By getting O’Neale back in the deal, the Hawks would get a true perimeter defender who also has the ability to hit catch-and-shoot 3-balls at a high level. His ability to space the floor, while being impactful as a low-usage offensive player would really suit the Hawks’ playing style.

Lastly, the Hawks would get another floor spacer in Harris who has led the league in 3-point percentage earlier in his career. While Harris is porous on defense, his shooting can make up for this deficit in his game. Both he and O’Neale are going to be in the final years of their deals which also gives the Hawks the ability to move over the next few seasons.

This would free up some playing time at the four which will help define roles for the Hawks. A secondary trade for a backup big man would need to be made. This would be the first of many moves for the Hawks this offseason and should improve the team.