Why The Atlanta Hawks Do The Deal 

If Onkongwu is doomed to be Capela’s backup in Atlanta, they might as well flip him for a more appropriate backup. 

That’s what they’d be getting in McGee. He’s looked a touch past his prime this season, but he’s still capable of giving them solid minutes as a rim runner/rim protector. 

Of course, the Hawks wouldn’t willingly take a loss on Onkongwu. That’s not what they’re doing here. They’re getting a first-round pick for him in addition to McGee. 

For this win-now franchise, that’s merely an asset.

NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Onyeka Okongwu, Atlanta Hawks & Dallas Mavericks Updates

The Hawks likely wouldn’t acquire this pick with the intention of drafting somebody. They would probably be aiming to trade it down the line. 

Should the Mavericks be trading it now?