In the NBA, nothing is more important than talent. That’s not the same as saying that talent is the only thing that matters. It isn’t. Defense matters. Durability matters too. With that in mind, the league has its share of superstars that, while talented, are problematic.
Take Trae Young of the Atlanta Hawks. He’s remarkably talented. In fact, Young is one of the best playmakers in the NBA. Still, his poor defense and questionable leadership make him a problematic player.
What about Zion Williamson of the New Orleans Pelicans? His talent is immeasurable. Yet, his total inability to stay healthy makes him difficult to build around as well. Could the two pair up in New Orleans next season?
The Trade Proposal
Atlanta Hawks Receive: G C.J McCollum, G/F Dyson Daniels, 2024 First-Round Pick (LAL via NOP), 2025 First-Round Pick (MIL via NOP), 2026 First-Round Pick (NOP)
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: G Trae Young
On the other hand, we shouldn’t be quick to dismiss players as problematic. They can improve. Especially when they’re young. Who are we to say these players can’t improve on their flaws?
In fact, Trae Young seemingly improved on defense last year. He was still a liability. At his size, that may always be the case. Still, if he can work his way towards average, his offensive abilities will more than offset any shortcomings on that end.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Trae Young, New Orleans Pelicans & Atlanta Hawks Updates
Can Williamson stay healthy? That’s a more difficult call to make. If he can, he’ll be one of the best offensive players in the NBA for years to come. Should the Pelicans pair him with Young?
Why The New Orleans Pelicans Do The Deal
This is a risk for the Pelicans. Think about it. We spent two slides highlighting the concerns with Williamson and Young. If the Pelicans made this deal, they’d have both of them.
They’d also have, arguably, the most offensive firepower in the NBA. We’re not joking. When healthy, a trio of Williamson, Young, and Brandon Ingram could rival any trio in the NBA.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Trae Young, New Orleans Pelicans & Atlanta Hawks Updates
Imagine Williamson catching a lob from Young. How do you contend with that two-man game with Ingram on the wings? The Pelicans would raise their ceiling considerably if they made this deal. Should the Hawks help them raise it?
Why The Atlanta Hawks Do The Deal
We’re not the first to suggest that the Hawks could move Young. There are rumors that this front office is concerned with their star point guard. Can we verify those rumors? No. That’s not the point here. We’re trying to put the Hawks in a better position than they were in before.
Frankly, we think this deal accomplishes that goal. Following this deal, the Hawks would be committing to Dejounte Murray as their long-term point guard. By contrast to Young, he’s one of the best defensive guards in the NBA.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Trae Young, New Orleans Pelicans & Atlanta Hawks Updates
Meanwhile, McCollum is a more natural partner for him as an off-ball player. Throw in a young player with star potential in Daniels and a trio of unprotected first-round picks, and this deal could motivate the Hawks to finally move Young. As talented as he may be.
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