Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports

NBA exec thinks Hawks are targeting two-time All-Star

Originally posted on Sportsnaut | By Jason Burgos | Last updated 3/23/23

The Atlanta Hawks’ desire to trade John Collins may not just be about getting out from under a bad contract but could be part of a greater plan to free up cap space to make a run at one of the best players from an Eastern Conference rival.

The Atlanta Hawks have reportedly had Collins on the trade block for months. The assumption for many was the decision was based on the realization that the five-year, $125 million contract they gave him in 2021 was a bad choice, and he is a poor fit for their current roster as he makes well over $20 million a season for the next few years.

However, there could be more to it than just trying to move on from a bad contract. The Hawks have had another disappointing campaign in 2022-2023. They are two games under .500 and likely to compete in this year’s NBA play-in tournament.

The offseason trade for star guard Dejounte Murray has not worked out, and clearly Trae Young needs much more help if he is going to bring Atlanta its first NBA championship. One anonymous executive believes the Hawks may have a specific All-Star player in mind to pair with Young.

Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown made headlines recently when he made comments that didn’t build confidence he would re-sign with the team when he becomes a free agent after next season. On Wednesday, Heavy.com spoke with several NBA execs about Brown’s future free-agent market, and the Hawks were seen by many as a top suitor.

“One reason the Hawks are trying to unload Collins is to get that cap space and be in a position to add someone, another star, with Trae. It is not easy to get free agents to Atlanta but Jaylen Brown would be different–they want to be in position, at least, to make a move if he wants to be there. I think there is no question they are watching the situation with him. Closely.”
– Anonymous Eastern Conference executive

Brown is a native of Georgia, and returning home on a massive contract would certainly make a lot of sense. There is also the possibility that if the Celtics fall short of their NBA title goals this season, they could ponder moving Brown in a trade before he hits free agency in the summer of 2024. Maybe Collins and picks could be a part of an offer from the Atlanta Hawks for the two-time All-Star.

This article first appeared on Sportsnaut and was syndicated with permission.

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