The Atlanta Hawks were not supposed to make it as far as they did in the playoffs.
This team looked dead in the early part of the season before giving Nate McMillan the keys.
Once the playoffs rolled around, the Hawks turned it up to a level no one saw coming.
Not only did they beat the New York Knicks in the first round, but they also took down the number-one seeded Philadelphia 76ers.
They were two wins away from a trip to the NBA Finals.
Perhaps if Trae Young doesn’t get hurt, they make it.
This offseason is critical, as they are now looking to ride this wave of momentum into next season.
They have already locked up their superstar player, Young, for the next five years.
Trae Young and Hawks are expected to finalize a five-year, $170M extension which could be pushed to $201.5M with a supermax trigger, per @sam_amick pic.twitter.com/2douIRQ188
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) August 2, 2021
However, they must look at the roster and think as to what additions can take them to that next step.
There are two players, in mind, that can help them reach that next level of contention.
2. Victor Oladipo
Victor Oladipo is only 29 years old, but his time in the NBA does not seem promising like it once was.
Injuries have plagued his career the last few years.
It is unfortunate that this is happening to Oladipo.
He was a two-time All-Star just a few years ago, but that era of him is over.
That leaves his free agent market very dry for someone of his caliber and age.
“Several execs say it’s possible [Victor] Oladipo, 29, could go unsigned for the next few months, until he can show he is ready to play.”
(via @SIChrisMannix) pic.twitter.com/FjNaa0sQ3l
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) August 2, 2021
The Hawks should make a call to see if Oladipo would come for a cheap contract.
He can come and try to prove his worth once again for a bigger contract the following season.
If Oladipo can come back to his old self just for a small amount he can drastically help the Hawks.
He has the capability to handle the ball for Young.
Also, his defense can be great at times.
The Hawks should try and grab Oladipo before another contender tries to.
1. Dennis Schroder
Dennis Schroder and the Hawks should have a reunion.
This would work out for both parties.
The Hawks need a backup guard that can play with the ball in their hand and off the ball.
Also, a guard that can play solid defense would help.
That is who Schroder is.
He can sign a one-year deal and get back to his Sixth Man of the Year form.
His one season with the Los Angeles Lakers was not pleasant toward the end.
There was an opportunity to sign a big extension with them, but he turned it down for more money.
Unfortunately, that money is not coming.
A one-year rental with the Hawks can potentially bring his value back up to the price he wants.
Both sides can benefit from this pairing.
Schroder needs a team, as the free agent market is beginning to run thin.
The Hawks should call him up and work out a deal.
They were so close to the NBA Finals.
Their window has opened a lot earlier than expected.
Instead of waiting around, go out for some talent now.
