Are the Atlanta Hawks a sleeper destination for a Boston Celtics superstar on the trade market?
The Hawks, led by Trae Young, have struggled to translate their offensive firepower into consistent playoff success since an Eastern Conference Finals berth in 2021.
Despite boasting one of the league’s best defenders in Dyson Daniels, Atlanta’s defense has been a persistent weakness, posting a 114.8 defensive rating last season, good for just 18th in the league (per NBA.com).
If Atlanta is going to keep Young in its core, acquiring another star with two-way potential would be wise.
Moreover, with a roster featuring young wing talents like Daniels, Jalen Johnson, and Zaccharie Risacher, the Hawks are under pressure to make bold moves to elevate their ceiling.
Meanwhile, the Celtics are facing financial constraints with their star-laden roster. Jaylen Brown, the 2024 NBA Finals MVP, is a cornerstone of their success, but his massive contract and the team’s luxury tax concerns could force Boston to consider drastic steps to maintain flexibility.
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Enter the possibility of a blockbuster trade. Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz suggested on Tuesday that Atlanta could go after Brown.
“It’s no secret that the Atlanta Hawks have struggled defensively in the Trae Young era,” Swartz wrote.
“If they plan to keep Young, the Hawks will need to address this end of the court in a major way. If financial stress causes the Celtics to listen to offers on Brown this summer, the Hawks should bite. Pairing the 2024 NBA Finals MVP with Young and Jalen Johnson would create an exciting Big Three in Atlanta. Brown grew up in Marietta, Georgia, a suburb of Atlanta.”
This idea is seductive for Hawks fans. Brown, a two-way star, would address Atlanta’s defensive woes while adding a proven scorer and clutch performer. His Georgia roots could make the move emotionally appealing, potentially anchoring him long-term.
The Hawks would need to navigate salary cap hurdles, but Brown’s fit alongside Young and Johnson could create a dynamic trio capable of competing in the East.
Sadly, the Celtics are unlikely to move Brown, especially with Jayson Tatum expected to miss the entire 2025-26 season while recovering from a ruptured Achilles.
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