5 Players Hawks might replace Clint Capela with by the trade deadline
By Tyler Watts
The Atlanta Hawks are eager to make another deep playoff run. They reached the conference finals in 2021, but back-to-back first-round exits have the new front office trying to make a massive splash. Fans have heard the Pascal Siakam rumors (subscription required), but no deal is imminent. The Hawks would love to add a third star and continue to search for the right move.
Atlanta has Clint Capela and De’Andre Hunter making just over $20 million this season and locked up for multiple years. They figure to be key matching salaries if the Hawks can acquire a star. Onyeka Okongwu is ready for more minutes, which has the franchise exploring Capela’s market. They love the veteran’s fit with Trae Young, but it is time to see what the sixth overall pick in 2020 can do in a starting role.
If Capela is traded before February’s deadline, who can the Hawks get? Atlanta is not just giving him away. Expect them to put assets together to make a splash. The Hawks’ backcourt is set with Trae Young and Dejounte Murray, so they will be searching for an upgrade at a position of need.
Players Atlanta Hawks might replace Clint Capela with by the trade deadline
5. Kyle Anderson
Anderson is not a star or even a starter. The 6’9 forward is comfortable coming off the bench and playing virtually any role. He averaged 9.4 points, 5.3 rebounds, 4.9 assists, 1.1 steals, and 0.9 blocks in 28.4 minutes per game last season in Minnesota as Slo Mo shot north of 50 percent from the field and 41.0 percent on his threes.
The Hawks have a hole at the four after trading John Collins. De’Andre Hunter, Saddiq Bey, A.J. Griffin, and Jalen Johnson will see minutes there. Head coach Quinn Snyder will try some two big-man lineups with Okongwu and Capela on the floor at the same time. Atlanta would love to add a true power forward to their mix.
The Timberwolves have a bit of a logjam after re-signing Naz Reid. Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert will get the majority of the minutes with Jaden McDaniels, Reid, and Anderson all fighting for playing time. Minnesota would not want Capela, but this could turn into a three-team deal.
Kyle Anderson would be a fantastic fit for the Atlanta Hawks and could be a target at the trade deadline or next summer if he hits free agency.