Does this trade make sense for the Atlanta Hawks?

The Atlanta Hawks had been searching for a trade in which they got a first-round pick for Cam Reddish and it really is not surprising to see them make this trade with the Knicks. 

Not only did they get a first-round pick, but the Hawks opened up a little bit of salary space for them to possibly make another big move. 

It seems very likely that Danilo Gallinari is going to be on the move at some point, but who can the Hawks really bring in that would make an immediate difference in their chances to not only make the playoffs, but go on another deep run? 

Caris LeVert is certainly an option as a wing scorer that they could pursue, but Ben Simmons makes a lot more sense because of his two-way style of play. Not only could Simmons be utilized in pick-and-roll sets next to Clint Capela in the frontcourt, but he would be an anchor for this team defensively. 

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With De’Andre Hunter now back from his injury, the Hawks would have two young, stellar on-ball defenders and Danny Green has been known to be a versatile defender himself on the wing. 

Atlanta ranks 28th in the league in defensive rating this season and if they are to make the playoffs, they will have to find ways to better themselves on that end of the floor.

Trading John Collins does give up a lot of offensive production at the power-forward position, but Ben Simmons can be just as good of an offensive talent as Collins. 

Maybe Simmons will never develop a jump-shot, but he would not need to given his ability to push the pace of play and run pick-and-rolls with Trae Young, one of the best pick-and-roll finishers and passers in the league right now. 

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This is ultimately a trade that works out in favor of the Hawks and they should be willing to trade both John Collins and Danilo Gallinari if it gives them a good chance at acquiring Ben Simmons from the Philadelphia 76ers.