The Atlanta Hawks are coming off an appearance in the Eastern Conference Finals during the 2021-22 season after pulling off a surprise run to the NBA playoffs. Now, they have a 16-19 record and rank ahead of only the Detroit Pistons, Orlando Magic, and Indiana Pacers in the standings.
One of the concerning factors that has contributed to the Hawks underwhelming results has been their struggling defensive results. Atlanta is posting just a 112.3 defensive rating (25th) through 35 games and have a losing record despite trailing only the Utah Jazz in offensive rating.
Not having De’Andre Hunter due to injury has been a contributing factor the Hawks’ decline in defensive results in addition to the many players who have landed in the NBA health and safety protocol. The focus for the Hawks clearly needs to be to improve defensively as the NBA trade deadline approaches.
Despite the Hawks needing to improve defensively, the team could also use a secondary scoring option for the playoffs to not have to rely so heavily on Trae Young to shoulder the initiation load.
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The Washington Wizards got off to a strong start to the 2021-22 season but have since regressed. There hasn’t been indication from Bradley Beal wanting to be traded, but if the team were to opt to pursue a rebuild, there would be no shortage of suitors. Perhaps the Hawks could be an intriguing option.
Let’s take a look at an NBA trade scenario centered around Bradley Beal could look like involving the Atlanta Hawks and Washington Wizards.
