NBA Rumors: Hawks/Spurs Trade In The Works

 

We know that the Atlanta Hawks will be busy at the trade deadline. That much has been made clear repeatedly this trade season. We also know that power forward John Collins has been mentioned prominently as a name that could be on the move. 

According to Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report, the Hawks have been talking with the San Antonio Spurs, and have interest in their defensive stalwart, Derrick White. 

"Atlanta placed a call to San Antonio about Derrick White," writes Fischer. He notes that this isn't the first time the Hawks have had White on their radar, as they also pursued him as far back as 2020.

The Hawks' defense is a disaster this season, ranked 27th in Defensive Rating. White's superb on-ball defense, and ability to take charges (3rd most in the NBA), would be a welcome addition in Atlanta.

At nearly 17 points and 8 boards a game, Collins would bring scoring and rebounding to a Spurs' frontcourt that's in need of both.

Since the Hawks are looking for a "valuable first-round pick" in addition to a starting-caliber player in return for Collins, the Spurs would have to be willing to forego what will likely be a lottery pick in 2022 to move the needle for Atlanta. It remains to be seen if San Antonio is willing to part with that pick.

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