One NBA writer believes the Atlanta Hawks should trade for Toronto Raptors forward Pascal Siakam this summer.
Andy Bailey of Bleacher Report thinks the Hawks need Siakam’s “creation” on offense to alleviate some of the pressure placed on Trae Young and Dejounte Murray. Having another option to attack from different spots could go a long way.
“While there’s plenty of creation in Atlanta’s backcourt, a little offensive diversity could make the attack less predictable,” Bailey wrote. “Last season, John Collins, Clint Capela and Onyeka Okongwu combined for just 3.1 assists per game, while Siakam produced 5.8 by himself. Getting a little playmaking and distribution from the frontcourt would lighten the load on Trae Young and Dejounte Murray.”
Siakam averaged 24.2 points, 7.8 rebounds and 5.8 assists for the Raptors this past season while shooting 48.0% from the field, 32.4% from beyond the arc and 77.4% from the free-throw line. If the Hawks find a way to acquire the two-time All-Star, they would have a dynamic Big 3 of Siakam, Trae Young and Dejounte Murray (assuming Murray isn’t traded).
The 29-year-old Siakam signed a four-year, $136 million rookie contract extension with the Raptors in October 2019. He can sign an extension this summer since he only has one year left on his deal. Siakam will make $37.9 million in 2023-24.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Pascal Siakam, Toronto Raptors & Atlanta Hawks Updates
Can Atlanta make it happen? The Hawks have actually maintained a trade pursuit of Siakam, according to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports. However, it’s unknown if the Raptors will part ways with the Douala native.
“Atlanta has also maintained a pursuit of Raptors forward Pascal Siakam, according to league sources,” Fischer wrote. “The Hawks’ have attempted several creative packages to land the All-NBA talent from Toronto, including at least one three-team scenario.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Pascal Siakam, Toronto Raptors & Atlanta Hawks Updates
The Hawks are looking to surround Young with more talent after losing in the first round of the playoffs the last two years. It will be fascinating to see if Atlanta is able to acquire Siakam, who has career averages of 17.0 points, 6.5 rebounds and 3.5 assists.
Toronto lost the 9-10 play-in game to the Chicago Bulls and didn’t make the playoffs this year, so the franchise could rebuild this offseason under new head coach Darko Rajakovic.
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