Why The Atlanta Hawks Do The Deal

Some will suggest that trading for Simmons would be an overcorrection for the Hawks. For that matter, some will suggest that even trading for Murray was the wrong move. 

To be sure, the fit here is not seamless. Murray is a remarkably well-rounded player, and his elite point-of-attack defense will cover for Young’s shortcomings. The only major shortcoming in his game is shooting. Unfortunately, that makes it hard to picture his role alongside the ball-dominant Young. 

How on earth does Ben Simmons fit into this equation? 

Well, the Hawks would ideally change his role. Alongside Young, he’d have to embrace life as a roll man in pick-and-roll sets. With his length, fluidity, and athleticism, he should actually thrive there. 

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Ben Simmons, Brooklyn Nets & Atlanta Hawks Updates

This deal wouldn’t complete the Hawks. They’d probably need to find a stretch big man – the pairing between Simmons and presumptive new starting center Onyeka Onkongwu remains problematic.

Still, if they could land that player, they’d be well on their way to building a fitting roster around Trae Young’s limitations following this deal.