The Atlanta Hawks front office wanted to make sure that they didn’t make the same mistake this NBA offseason as they did last year.
After advancing to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021, the front office decided to run it back, retaining virtually the same rotation.
The results were not as positive during the 2021-22 season, so Travis Schlenk made sure to shake things up this off-season. They made a major move, acquiring All-Star point guard Dejounte Murray from the San Antonio Spurs to pair with Trae Young.
The Hawks now have one of the best backcourt duos in the NBA and still, have plenty of strong role players around them to have a good rotation. However, they may not be done augmenting the roster.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jae Crowder, Phoenix Suns & Atlanta Hawks Updates
According to Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium, the Hawks have emerged as a suitor for Phoenix Suns forward, Jae Crowder. Crowder didn’t report to training camp as he is currently away from the team as he awaits a trade.
The Suns are looking to expand the role of Cam Johnson, which would mean a diminished role for Crowder. As a result, he asked for a trade and a pretty strong market developed as a result.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jae Crowder, Phoenix Suns & Atlanta Hawks Updates
The Dallas Mavericks, Boston Celtics, Utah Jazz, Miami Heat and Cleveland Cavaliers were all mentioned as possible suitors along with the Hawks’ emergence. Crowder would be an excellent addition to Atlanta’s wing rotation given his skill set and experience.
The veteran forward fits the mold as a 3-and-D player, which the team cannot have enough of around Young. Given his elite playmaking but underwhelming defense, the Hawks have made it a point to acquire players that fit well around him. He also has 107 games of playoff experience that will go a long way in helping a relatively young Hawks roster.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jae Crowder, Phoenix Suns & Atlanta Hawks Updates
Working out compensation could be easier between the franchises than it would be for others. The Hawks and Suns have been linked previously this offseason as John Collins was also thought to be someone of interest for Phoenix. So, there is some familiarity when it comes to the front offices and rosters as deals were discussed previously.
