The Atlanta Hawks are making waves in the NBA trade rumor mill, and it’s all centered around the need for a dominant center.
One intriguing proposal that has surfaced is a potential blockbuster trade with the New Orleans Pelicans, involving Clint Capela and the Lithuanian sensation, Jonas Valanciunas.
Let’s delve into why this trade could be a game-changer for the Hawks.
The Atlanta Hawks’ Center Conundrum
First and foremost, let’s address the elephant in the room—the Atlanta Hawks are in dire need of a solid presence in the center position.
Clint Capela has been a force to reckon with, averaging a double-double last season, but the Hawks seem willing to explore alternatives to strengthen their roster.
Jonas Valanciunas: A World Cup Hero
Jonas Valanciunas dropped 24 PTS and 12 REB in the Lithuania W 💪🇱🇹#FIBAWC | #WinForAll pic.twitter.com/8yo5CQydo9
— NBA (@NBA) September 7, 2023
Enter Jonas Valanciunas, the Lithuanian big man who led his national team to an incredible World Cup campaign.
Valanciunas showcased his versatility, scoring prowess, and tenacity on the international stage. His performance turned heads and made him a hot commodity in the NBA trade market.
A Formidable Trio: Murray, Young, and Jonas
Imagine the possibilities with Valanciunas in the lineup alongside Trae Young and Dejounte Murray. This trio could transform the Hawks into a formidable force in the Eastern Conference.
Valanciunas’ scoring ability in the paint, coupled with Murray’s playmaking and Young’s lethal shooting, would provide a well-rounded offensive threat.
The Pelicans’ Motivation
Clint Capela last season:
– 3rd in Offensive Boards/Game @ 4.0
– 4th most efficient roll man out of P&R @ 1.33 PPP
– 19th in Rim Points Saved/75 poss @ .93Dominant on the glass, and caused havoc at the rim all season on both sides of the court. pic.twitter.com/nIEl3RmJRf
— TRAE YOUNG ALL-DEFENSE 2023 (@dlee4three) September 13, 2023
On the other side of the trade, the New Orleans Pelicans have their reasons to consider this proposal seriously. Their desire for rim protection has been evident, and Capela fits the bill perfectly.
Capela boasts an impressive defensive record, holding opponents to a lower conversion rate inside six feet compared to Valanciunas.
A Win-Win Scenario?
Both Capela and Valanciunas have been the subject of trade rumors this summer, indicating that their respective teams are open to new possibilities.
With Capela’s proven defensive prowess and Valanciunas’ scoring ability, this trade proposal could benefit both teams. The Atlanta Hawks, coming off a first-round playoff exit in 2023, are eager to make strategic moves to improve their chances next season.
Similarly, the New Orleans Pelicans are looking to address their needs and build a competitive squad. As the NBA offseason unfolds, it remains to be seen whether this trade proposal becomes a reality.
Nonetheless, the prospect of Jonas Valanciunas donning an Atlanta Hawks jersey is undoubtedly an enticing one for fans and could potentially reshape the dynamics of the Eastern Conference.
NBA trade waters are heating up, and the Atlanta Hawks are right in the mix, eyeing a talent like Jonas Valanciunas.
With the potential trio of Murray, Young, and Jonas, the Hawks could be on the cusp of something special, making this trade proposal one to watch closely in the coming months.
