Why The Atlanta Hawks Do The Deal
This is not an open-and-shut case for the Hawks. Having already lost Kevin Huerter this summer, their guard depth will be significantly weakened following this deal.
On the other hand, they’ll be starting one of the most talented backcourts in the NBA. In all likelihood, they’ll try to stagger them. With that in mind, Justin Holiday’s low usage, 3-and-D style should suit him for primary backup duties. Fo that matter, Shamet may be marginally overpaid, but he’s still a rotation-caliber player.
If you look at the Hawks’ presumed justification for the Murray deal, this becomes an easier pill to swallow. In all likelihood, they landed Murray to make up for Trae Young’s porous point-of-attack defense. If so, Crowder would be a perfect acquisition.
Moreover, his positional flexibility could allow them to run lineups that offset Murray’s poor spacing. For example, a lineup of John Collins / Crowder / Deandre Hunter / Murray / Young would feature five-out spacing.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jae Crowder, Phoenix Suns & Atlanta Hawks Updates
On the other hand, Clint Capela, Crowder, and Hunter would make for a formidable frontcourt defense. All things considered, the Hawks would have the type of flexibility that contenders regularly feature following this trade.
What does it do for the Suns?
