There wasn’t much selling at this year’s NBA trade deadline. It was a buyer’s market, so teams didn’t want to sell. Could we see more selling this summer?
If so, keep an eye on the Atlanta Hawks. They were expected to sell this year, but they hung onto their players. It wouldn’t be surprising if the Hawks made some major moves this summer.
Alternatively, the Hawks are low on assets. They’ve put a lot of eggs in their current basket. Could they be surprise buyers this summer? If so, could they acquire Kyle Kuzma from the Washington Wizards?
NBA Trade Proposal
Washington Wizards Receive: F De’Andre Hunter, G/F AJ Griffin, 2029 First-Round Pick (Top 5 Protected – ATL)
Atlanta Hawks Receive: F Kyle Kuzma
The Wizards were another team that was expected to sell. They didn’t. This team surprised NBA fans by hanging onto Kyle Kuzma.
Perhaps they plan on keeping him. Sure, the Wizards just started rebuilding. They moved Bradley Beal over the summer. Does that mean they have to commit to a long-term place at the bottom of the standings?
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards, Atlanta Hawks Updates
The Wizards may have other plans. This small market team could opt to hang onto Kuzma in hopes of getting competitive sooner rather than later. Should they take the opposite route?
Why The Washington Wizards Do The Deal
Frankly, yes. If you’re a Wizards fan, you should be hoping that the team held onto Kuzma because they didn’t get a good deal. At this stage in a rebuild, they should prioritize young players and assets.
Here, they’re picking some up an asset. For a player with Kuzma’s contract, a lightly protected first is good value. Washington would also broadly benefit from getting Kuzma out of the rotation and freeing up opportunities for their young core.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards, Atlanta Hawks Updates
Taking a flyer on Griffin doesn’t hurt either. If there’s a downside here, it’s taking on Hunter’s money. That’s a price worth paying for Washington given how much they’re receiving. Should the Hawks part with Hunter?
Why The Atlanta Hawks Do The Deal
The Trae Young era has been a confusing one in Atlanta. As soon as this team looks competitive, they fall behind. Some have suggested that they should move Young and look to the future.
Perhaps. At the same time, Young is one of the best playmakers in the NBA. Surely, there’s a way to make this work. The Hawks may want to keep adding good players to their roster. Kuzma is a good player – he’s a well-rounded guard who can shoot, defend and make plays.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards, Atlanta Hawks Updates
If the Hawks are hesitant here, it’ll be due to the emergence of Jalen Johnson. He’s similar to Kuzma. That’s fine. Atlanta could overwhelm opponents with multiple playmakers. If everything clicks, they’ll be glad they weren’t sellers at the deadline.
