The Atlanta Hawks’ center, Clint Capela, might get traded to the New Orleans Pelicans this offseason. The Pelicans were exceptional at defending last season, with Jonas Valanciunas in the middle. They also roster the likes of Herb Jones, Trey Murphy III, Dyson Daniels, and Larry Nance on their roster. Adding a defensive anchor to the mix can boost their strength. Can they replace Jonas with Hawks’ center Clint? He is a big man who can guard multiple positions.
The Swiss international played 65 games for the Hawks last season and averaged 12 points, 0.9 assists, and 11 rebounds per game while shooting 65.3 percent from the field. The Hawks have been looking forward to trading off the 29-year-old, and this looks like a good opportunity to do so. Can the Pelicans acquire him from them? Here is all the information you need about the trade between the Atlanta Hawks and the New Orleans Pelicans involving Clint Capela.
What would the Pelicans offer for Clint Capela?
The Pelicans are expected to offer Jonas Valanciunas, Kira Lewis and a 2025 first-round pick in exchange for the Hawks’ #15. Teams have started to build their squad around offensive big men now; look at the Nuggets and the Sixers. But the Hawks are not going to build around Valanciunas at all, so why should they do this deal?
The Hawks have many veteran players available in trade discussions, per @wojespn:
“Virtually everybody among their veterans, except for Trae Young, have really been part of {trade talks} for the Hawks.”
Two players who fit this criteria are Clint Capela and De’Andre Hunter.… pic.twitter.com/xQ03Urkc9b
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) June 27, 2023
Why would the Hawks trade-off Clint Capela?
The Hawks recently landed Dejounte Murray, so even though they can’t put Jonas in the starting lineup, they are likely to keep him as a rotational player. Capela’s departure would let Okongwu have minutes on the floor. The Hawks would love to do this deal for the draft pick they are getting here.
Report: The Mavs don’t want to be done… They would still love the chance to make another trade run at Clint Capela, per Stein #MFFL pic.twitter.com/bjv8ajFnGj
— MFFL (1-0) (@Mavs_FFL) July 30, 2023
Why would the Pelicans like to sign Clint Capela?
The Pelicans are doing this deal to complete their squad. They need a defensive anchor, and they are getting one here. They would not mind losing Jonas since they are landing his replacement in this deal itself. It’d be interesting to see if they keep or sell Jonas.
Will the Pelicans be a tough nut to crack after this deal? How will the Hawks line up next season? We’ll keep you updated.
