The Golden State Warriors enter the NBA offseason with the No. 2 pick in the 2020 NBA Draft. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Hawks will need to figure out if they are willing to give John Collins a major payday — something they’ve previously been reported as being hesitant about doing.
There is a pathway for both the Warriors and Hawks to be able to work out a deal with each other. The trade package Zach Buckley of Bleacher Report suggested involved the Warriors receiving John Collins and Kevin Huerter from the Hawks in exchange for the No. 2 pick, Kevon Looney, and Jordan Poole.
The rationale for the Hawks in this scenario is quite clear. They would not have to give a substantial contract extension to Collins, who they are reportedly hesitant about giving ‘significant money.’ Being able to select an intriguing prospect with the No. 2 pick maintains strong flexibility.
It’s a bit difficult to see the functionality of adding Collins from the Warriors’ perspective. His inability to move with quickness laterally prevents him from being an impactful defender out on the perimeter against switches and in pick-and-roll situations.
The improvement Collins has experienced as a three-point shooter has been fascinating to see and it’s clear he has gravity as a roll man. It seems he’d be best suited playing alongside a stretch-five big man that can protect the rim to help cover up some of his defensive deficiencies.
The long-term financial landscape of the Warriors’ contract situation would be quite difficult to handle after having to give Collins an extension. There would be Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, and Andrew Wiggins all making substantial salaries on top of Collins.
The Warriors could find a cleaner fit than John Collins if they do intend to use the No. 2 pick to pursue a trade to add to their core. However, it’s clear he does have a variety of intangibles that could be helpful to Golden State, but would just come with some key limitations.
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