The Atlanta Hawks and Charlotte Hornets faced off in the first round of the NBA Play-In Tournament, with the Hawks winning decisively, 132-103.
The Hawks would go on to defeat the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Play-In Finals, earning the No. 8 seed and a matchup against the No. 1 seed Miami Heat while the Hornets’ offseason began.
It didn’t take long for the Hawks to join the Hornets as eliminated teams, as the Heat defeated them in five games. That series against the Heat showed just how much more work Atlanta has to do.
Atlanta should be on the search for players that can help take pressure off of Trae Young as facilitators and scorers. The Heat took him right out of the series, forcing him into 30 turnovers while giving up only 22 made shots in five games. Without Young playing well, the Hawks’ offense sputtered.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: 3 Targets For Charlotte Hornets To Pursue With Gordon Hayward Trade
The offense isn’t an issue for the Hornets, who can score with anyone. But, they need some help on the defensive end of the court.
Center is a major position of need as they could use an upgrade on Mason Plumlee in the middle of their lineup.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: 3 Targets For Charlotte Hornets To Pursue With Gordon Hayward Trade
Could these two Southeast Division rivals come together on a deal this offseason that benefits both teams? A trade centered around Gordon Hayward and John Collins could be something worth exploring for each franchise.
What would a deal look like? Let’s take a look at this hypothetical trade that involved Hayward and Collins.
