The Hawks are anticipated to make significant changes to their roster this offseason, starting with Trae Young and Dejounte Murray.
Atlanta will likely need to trade one of their All-Star point guards. Their on-court chemistry was lacking, and they performed poorly together. Trading either Young or Murray should bring in a substantial return of picks and/or players to build around the one who stays.
Additionally, the team is expected to trade several other pieces for more assets. If the Hawks draft Alex Sarr or another big man with their top pick, Clint Capela could become expendable.
According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, another player likely to be on the trade block is De’Andre Hunter. Rival executives expect Hunter to become available as the draft approaches.
Hunter’s career in Atlanta has been turbulent. He has struggled with injuries and inconsistencies and hasn’t fully lived up to his draft status, though he is not a bad player. This season, Hunter played only 57 games, the third-fewest of his career, but he averaged a career-high 15.6 points on 45.9% shooting from the field and 38.5% from three-point range, another career-best. He is often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best player, adding to his value.
If the Hawks aim to stay competitive rather than rebuild, they should seek more players like Hunter, not trade him away. Long wings who can shoot nearly 40% from beyond the arc are rare and valuable.
While some may argue that Hunter is overpaid at over $20 million per season, this is the market rate for a player of his caliber, which means there will be interest if the Hawks decide to trade him.
Regardless, all indications point to significant changes for Atlanta’s roster, and Hunter is likely to be part of those changes.
