Atlanta Hawks Receive: F Aaron Gordon, 2029 First-Round Pick (DEN)
Denver Nuggets Receive: F/C John Collins
As far as hypothetical trades go, this one is not a slam dunk. There could be obstacles in either direction.
The Hawks do appear open to moving John Collins. In fact, his name has been a prominent part of trade rumors for years now. With that said, their motivations are probably financial. This deal has them acquiring a player who makes $4 million less per season for the same duration of time.
Meanwhile, the Nuggets don’t need Collins. They’ll be hoping for a return to health from Michael Porter Jr. Should they really forfeit a first-round pick to acquire a similar(ish) player?
Yes. If the Nuggets do enjoy full health next season, it will mean they have a title window. In the NBA, you can’t afford to waste those. By that logic, the Nuggets can justify any talent upgrade, Gordon-for-Collins included.
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On the other hand, that $4 million a season could make Gordon easier to move than Collins down the road if the Hawks were inclined to.
More importantly, he’s a better fit in 2022-23. Collins is the better offensive player, but Gordon has his number on defense, and that’s where the Hawks need the most help.
