How This Trade Impacts Atlanta Hawks

The Atlanta Hawks need to shake things up. The run that they went on to the Eastern Conference Finals looks more like a fluke than the organization taking that next step forward.

There is a lot of talent on this roster, but they need to consolidate some things. They should be shopping for a big upgrade, and James Harden would certainly qualify as one.

The fit between Harden and Trae Young would be a bit awkward at times, but there is no denying the talent level of that duo. There arguably isn’t a better offensive combo in the NBA right now as they would be the best offensive backcourt in the NBA.

However, the Hawks don’t need more firepower on offense. Their issue this season is on the defensive end and this deal certainly wouldn’t help them on that end of the court. Young is an abysmal defender and Harden’s effort on that end has some ebb and flows.

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Trading away a versatile big man in John Collins and the team’s best perimeter defender in De’Andre Hunter would make them even worse on that end of the court. Parting ways with three first-round picks would also be a difficult thing to sign off on.

However, the Hawks would be playoff contenders with the duo of Young and Harden. There is still plenty of talent and depth remaining on the roster to make a formidable lineup.

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Atlanta could likely fill the gaps with veterans looking to chase a title as they would be a few defenders away from really making noise in the postseason.