Why The Atlanta Hawks Do The Deal

We already hinted at Washington’s ability to man small-ball 5 lineups. It would be absolutely essential for the Hawks in 2022-23.

For what it’s worth, they do have two starting-caliber bigs already in Clint Capela and Onyeka Onkongwu. They’re both quality players, but neither offers any floor spacing (unless it’s vertical). With the Hawks acquiring the hyper-talented but poor-shooting Dejounte Murray this summer, that could be a problem.

Washington helps to solve it. Meanwhile, he’s on an expiring contract. The Hawks would have to make a decision on his dollar value next summer, but it’s unlikely to meet the $23.5 million annual price tag on Collins’ deal.

Meanwhile, adding Kelly Oubre Jr. is a bonus. The Hawks could use an athletic wing who provides some floor-spacing and defense after jettisoning Cam Reddish at last year’s trade deadline. All told, this deal makes the Hawks deeper at the expense of the best player involved in it.

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If they’re desperate enough to unload Collins’ contract, that feels like a pretty good deal to us.