Four Potential Trade Scenarios For Deandre Hunter.
The Atlanta Hawks are gearing up for a busy offseason, with big moves on the horizon. While much of the trade chatter centers around stars like Trae Young and Dejounte Murray, De'Andre Hunter's name is also making the rounds as a potential trade piece. In this blog, we'll explore four potential trade scenarios for De'Andre Hunter that could bring significant value to the Hawks.
While Hunter is a talented player, his inconsistency and injury history suggest it might be time for the Hawks to explore other options. Here are four potential trade scenarios for Hunter:
Trade Scenario 1: De'Andre Hunter for Marcus Smart
First up, a straight swap that makes a lot of sense: De'Andre Hunter for Marcus Smart. This trade benefits both teams. Memphis gets a younger wing who can shoot, while Atlanta adds a guard who excels defensively. Imagine pairing Smart with either Trae Young or Dejounte Murray. Smart might be limited offensively, but his defensive prowess and leadership are invaluable.
Financially, the salaries are nearly even, though some draft picks might need to be included to balance the deal. Smart is on a two-year deal, providing flexibility, whereas Hunter has three years remaining. Overall, this trade could be a win-win for both teams.
Trade Scenario 2: De'Andre Hunter for Cole Anthony and Wendell Carter Jr.
Next, let's consider trading Hunter for Cole Anthony and Wendell Carter Jr. This deal brings young talent and depth to the Hawks. With questions surrounding Atlanta's center position, Carter Jr. offers a solid defensive presence and upside. He reminds many of Onyeka Okongwu but with a slightly different skill set.
Cole Anthony is a dynamic scoring threat who can light it up off the bench and step into a starting role if needed. For Orlando, acquiring Hunter provides a 3-and-D wing to pair with their young core, making this a beneficial trade for both teams.
Trade Scenario 3: De'Andre Hunter and Garrison Mathews for Caris LeVert and Georges Niang
In this scenario, the Hawks trade Hunter and Garrison Mathews for Caris LeVert and Georges Niang. LeVert is a versatile scorer who can play multiple positions and defend well. Niang adds three-point shooting and depth at the forward spot. He can come off the bench and provide instant offense, or start and spread the floor.
For the Cavs, this trade helps balance their roster by adding a young wing defender in Hunter and additional shooting with Mathews. This trade provides both teams with pieces that fit their respective needs.
Trade Scenario 4: De'Andre Hunter and a Second-Round Pick for Keegan Murray and Trey Lyles
Finally, a more controversial trade: sending Hunter and a second-round pick to the Kings for Keegan Murray and Trey Lyles. Murray is a promising young player who can score and defend, fitting well with either Trae Young or Dejounte Murray. Lyles is a reliable power forward who can start or come off the bench, providing versatility and depth.
For the Kings, this trade brings in a young wing defender in Hunter, who could develop alongside their core. Pairing him with Domantas Sabonis could create a strong frontcourt duo.
Conclusion
These are just a few potential trade scenarios for De'Andre Hunter. While each trade has its pros and cons, they all offer the Hawks a chance to retool and strengthen their roster. Whether it’s acquiring a defensive stalwart like Marcus Smart, adding young talent like Cole Anthony and Wendell Carter Jr., or gaining versatile scorers like Caris LeVert and Keegan Murray, the Hawks have options to consider.
If you agree or disagree with these trade ideas, let us know in the comments! We’d love to hear your thoughts on these potential moves. And if you enjoyed this blog, be sure to check out our other content for more Hawks news and analysis.
As always, peace!