Last summer, the NBA’s trade market looked a lot different. This was a seller’s market. Two teams gave up the farm to bring in quality players.
The Minnesota Timberwolves sent four first-round picks to the Utah Jazz for Rudy Gobert, and the Atlanta Hawks sent three to the San Antonio Spurs for Dejounte Murray.
So far, that isn’t working out for the Hawks. This team is now stuck with an expensive, mediocre roster. The Hawks surely wish they had those assets. Instead, they’ve got a whole bunch of problems.
On the other hand, the Minnesota Timberwolves may not have any regrets. They’ve got the best record in the Western Conference. Still, the Wolves could stand to upgrade their backcourt if they’re going to make a title push.
Could they acquire Bogdan Bogdanovic from the Hawks?
NBA Trade Proposal
Atlanta Hawks Receive: F Kyle Anderson, G Shake Milton, G/F Troy Brown Jr., 2030 First-Round Pick (Swap – MIN)
Minnesota Timberwolves Receive: G/F Bogdan Bogdanovic
Now, it’s a buyer’s market. That isn’t a coincidence. Last summer’s spending spree altered the market in more ways than one.
For starters, there are simply fewer buyers left. A few teams with the draft capital to make a major move remain. Still, they’re not going to rush into the first deal they find. With fewer buyers on the market, the market favors buyers.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Bogdan Bogdanovic, Atlanta Hawks, Minnesota Timberwolves Updates
Moreover, teams may have learned from the Hawks. If the Timberwolves flame out in the playoffs, they could serve as a cautionary tale as well. Does this deal help them avoid that fate?
Why The Minnesota Timberwolves Do The Deal
The Timberwolves have no interest in hoarding draft picks. When they acquired Gobert, it was widely seen as an overpay. With that in mind, they shouldn’t have an issue with giving up a distant pick swap.
On the other hand, they may not love depleting their depth. Anderson is a solid defensive wing, and Milton is a contributor as well. At the same time, they’re rumored to be interested in Bogdanovic. This is the only way to match his salary without giving up a core player like Mike Conley or Naz Reid.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Bogdan Bogdanovic, Atlanta Hawks, Minnesota Timberwolves Updates
This is a cost worth paying for Bogdanovic. He’s an upgrade over Milton, and the Wolves can spare Anderson with their front-court depth. Bogdanovic’s ability to create shots, make plays, and space the floor will make them a better team. What does this deal do for the Hawks?
Why The Atlanta Hawks Do The Deal
The Hawks are in a tough spot. They’ve got no draft capital. The Hawks don’t have any financial flexibility. This team is stuck between a rock and a hard place.
This deal helps them begin to wiggle out. Bogdanovic is on a longterm contract. By contrast, Anderson is on an expiring deal. Meanwhile, Milton and Brown are on inconsequential deals.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Bogdan Bogdanovic, Atlanta Hawks, Minnesota Timberwolves Updates
So, this deal improves the Hawks’ financial flexibility. It also nets them some draft capital. By 2030, either of these teams could be in any position. Who knows where the trade market will be by then?
