The Atlanta Hawks have been relatively quiet ahead of the trade deadline. For a team that was willing to ship off the face of their franchise just last year, this is new territory. Surely, a 19-19 record couldn’t be making them this hesitant?
Indeed, the Hawks are holding their cards so close to the vest, they’re even playing keep away with players they’ve been trying to move off of for years.
“A guy you’ve been trying to move for two years has a strong two months, so now he’s untouchable?” one Western Conference executive asks Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus, addressing the Hawks’ willingness to trade Sixth Man of the Year candidate De’Andre Hunter.
Hawks’ De’Andre Hunter ‘Untouchable’ Ahead Of Trade Deadline?
It’s no secret that Hunter is having a career season. Averaging a career-high 19.4 points per game, the 2019 No. 4 pick looks a lot like he did in college. Coming off the bench as a sixth man, he’s been aggressive in looking for his shot.
This is a marked difference from his first few years in the league. In those days, he seemed content playing within the flow of the offense. Now, he’s much more willing to dictate the terms.
All of that being said, the Hawks have been at least willing to trade the chiseled forward for years. The primary motivation is well-documented, with Atlanta hoping to reduce their salary commitments. In fact, the rumors began soon after he inked a four-year, $95 million extension. The math may look different for Atlanta now though, with Clint Capela and Larry Nance Jr.‘s contracts set to expire in the offseason, the duo making $33.5 million combined in 2024-25.
Yesterday’s Price Is Not Today’s Price
It should be noted that as Hunter’s level of play has risen, so has his value. This could be another complication with regard to trading him. Yesterday’s price is not today’s price. Conversely, the Hawks may see this version of him as an integral part of their future rather than a luxury.
NBA championships aren’t often won on the backs of star sixth men. Nonetheless, a team that was once home to three-time Sixth Man of the Year award winner Lou Williams knows just how important that type of player can be. Especially one with general managers who played against Manu Ginobli and the San Antonio Spurs during their dynasty.
What makes Hunter an atypical sixth man is his two-way play. He isn’t just a scorer but a borderline elite defender as well. With his skillset, including the way his outside shooting complements rising star Jalen Johnson in the frontcourt and makes him a useful target for Trae Young, he may very well be key to their success. He might also be relatively difficult to replace.
If the Pennsylvania native does eventually get traded, multiple contenders among his suitors. Among the more intriguing options is a potential deal with the Denver Nuggets, who could send the Hawks marksman Michael Porter Jr., one of Young’s closest companions.
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