Option #4 - Pushing the red button
The final option has also been the most popular since even before the Hawks secured the top pick. Many around the league – and even some within the organization – expect the Hawks to at least explore splitting up Murray and Young again.
They had several conversations with prospective teams – including the Los Angeles Lakers about Murray and the San Antonio Spurs about Young – before the trade deadline.
Nothing came to fruition and their season ended much as it began.
The Hawks were expected to come away with a sizeable return before. Adding in the No. 1 overall pick, even in a weak draft class, should boost the value of their offer substantially. The question is, who should they target?
Among the top names that could be on the trade block are Pelicans star Brandon Ingram and Chicago Bulls star Zach LaVine, though that would be an overpay for the Hawks.
The Hawks could also call the Phoenix Suns and see if Kevin Durant is available after all.
Brooklyn Nets star Mikal Bridges could be an option, though it would be even better if the Hawks could also land Cam Johnson in such a move. There were also murmurs the Rockets were looking to move former No. 2 overall pick Jalen Green, though he finished the year strong.
Like the draft class, the options aren’t worth the Hawks’ making such a move on the surface. It would have to be something they feel strongly about.
Otherwise, Options Nos. 1 through 3 are all better bets and more logical.