Will They Land the Bulls’ Sensational All-Star Center
The Atlanta Hawks have had a challenging start to the 2024-25 season, sitting at 7-9 through their first 15 games. However, they currently hold the No. 6 seed in a competitive Eastern Conference. Despite their record, there are signs of promise, with several key players performing well.
Hawks superstar point guard Trae Young is averaging 21.9 points and 11.6 assists, although his efficiency has been underwhelming with a 46.5% effective field goal percentage. Star forward Jalen Johnson has impressed, posting 19.1 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game. Additionally, the team’s new point guard, Dyson Daniels, leads the league with 3.1 steals, making him a strong contender for Defensive Player of the Year.
While the Hawks may not appear to be in an all-in position, they have the potential to become a much more competitive team with the right move. A trade could elevate them into the conversation for a top-three seed in the Eastern Conference by the end of the season.
One possible move could involve acquiring Nikola Vučević, the talented center from the Chicago Bulls. Vučević, who was selected No. 16 overall in the 2011 NBA Draft by the Orlando Magic, is a two-time All-Star and one of the league’s top offensive centers. After a strong All-Star appearance in 2021, Vučević is enjoying a resurgence this season, averaging 20.3 points and 9.6 rebounds. His efficiency has been exceptional, with career-best marks of 46.5% from three-point range and 67.3% true shooting percentage, making him one of the most coveted trade targets in the league.
Currently, Clint Capela serves as the Hawks’ starting center. While Capela is a solid player, his offensive limitations make Vučević a much more enticing option for Atlanta. Adding Vučević would provide Trae Young with more versatility in the two-man game, as Vučević can stretch the floor with his three-point shooting.
In exchange for Vučević, the Bulls could seek a package that includes Capela, young prospects such as David Roddy, Dominick Barlow, and Kobe Bufkin, along with future draft assets.
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