John Collins

The Atlanta Hawks have taken a significant step backward this season. After an Eastern Conference Finals run last season, Atlanta will have to fight for their spot in series play during the postseason.

This could cause some disgruntled feelings within the locker room. John Collins signed a five-year, $125 million deal last offseason that kept him next to Trae Young in Atlanta.

Collins remained consistent on the glass but played nine fewer games than last season and saw his scoring and shooting numbers take a bit of a hit. The Hawks have shown that they will wheel and deal when necessary but is Collins one of the potential trade pieces?

It is always possible that the Hawks shed this contract to put more talent around Young, dubbed the franchise player.

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Collins is a different case since he is viewed as a young star around the league. In recent years, the additions of Bogdan Bogdanovic and Danilo Gallinari show that Atlanta will be aggressive. It also sent Cam Reddish away during the trade deadline.

This could also be why the front office wants to test the waters. At 24 years old, the value around Collins would be incredible despite his contract extension. If Collins is unhappy with how this season went, the front office should put the word out and see what return they could get.