The Atlanta Hawks had a subpar postseason when they lost to the Boston Celitcs in the Eastern Conference quarterfinals, but did something unexpected when they were able to trade Joe Johnson and his enormous contract this summer; so how did their entire off-season measure up?
Additions and Subtractions: Drafted John Jenkins, Mike Scott; Signed Lou Williams, Jordan Williams, Kyle Korver, Johan Petro, Devin Harris, Anthony Morrow, DeShawn Stevenson, Jordan Farmar; Lost Kirk Hinrich, Joe Johnson, Vladimir Radmanovic, Marvin Williams, Willie Green, Jerry Stackhouse
There was one way to kick-off the 2012 NBA Off-Season and that was with Atlanta’s new general manager, Danny Ferry, taking control of the mediocrity that riddled the team and made a move.
The boldest move that took many NBA enthusiasts by storm was the fact Joe Johnson and his once deemed “untradeable contract” was, in fact, traded.
That’s right Johnson’s remaining $89 million contract was traded to the Brooklyn Nets for some expiring contracts.
Atlanta also sent Marvin Williams packing to the wonderful world of Utah for Devin Harris.
With Johnson out of Atlanta, the team can focus on Josh Smith and Al Horford; the team — with their off-season trades — can surround them with offensive fire punches such as Kyle Korver and Jordan Farmar. Korver averaged 8.1 points on 43.2% shooting, but more importantly is his three-point shoot at 43.5%. Farmar averaged 10.4 points over 39 games last season on 46.7% shooting and averaged 44% from downtown.
The assumption is that Lou Williams will be starting for the Hawks and will be interesting to see how he performs as one versus from the bench. He was the lead scorer for the Philadelphia 76ers last season when he averaged 14.9 points on 40.7% shooting. Starting as opposed to coming off of the bench are two different issues entirely. Williams could flourish having a starting role, but then again, the pressure could be too much and he may struggle until he finds his groove.
Ferry’s off-season moves didn’t propel Atlanta into contention status, but what he did do was surprise a lot of folk by moving a HUGE contract and making room for possible roster upgrades in the summer of 2013.
Final Grade: B-
