Atlanta has many decisions to make on their own players this offseason and likely will not have very much money to spend on free agents. A superstar is not heading to the Hawks, but rumors are now out that Atlanta will be targeting a former Finals MVP.
Andre Iguodala is expected to receive interest from the Suns, Wolves, and Hawks in free agency this offseason
(ESPN).— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) June 1, 2017
The Warriors have become unstoppable since the addition of Kevin Durant, and while Iguodala’s services are still appreciated, they are no longer needed for the team to win championships. Iggy has already taken multiple pay cuts to stay with the Warriors and capture at least one title. It may be time for him to find a new home a play a bigger role for a much bigger pay check. The Warriors will not be able to offer Iguodala much money once again, making this possibly his last ride with one of the most incredible teams that has ever been built.
If Iggy is seriously considering leaving the Golden State, then far more than just these three teams mentioned will be interested in signing him. Atlanta makes for a natural fit, given the unselfish style of play and reputation the Hawks have garnered since Mike Budenholzer’s arrival. Atlanta also just hired Golden State’s former assistant GM, Travis Schlenk, to their GM position. Iggy is an unbelievably versatile player that begins and ends with his terrific defense. He has proven to be one of the only players in the league to disrupt Lebron James, which could make for an interesting matchup come playoff time. His unselfish play and high motor make him a perfect fit for the team. He could also serve as the perfect mentor to Taurean Prince.
The news also reiterates the theme that the Hawks are not looking to tank and rebuild. The organization wants to continue to be competitive, slowly working their way to championship contention. It is hard to imagine Iguodala coming cheap, though, as it is not likely he takes a discount to go anywhere other than Golden State or a championship contender.
Iggy has had a terrific career, but do the Hawks really need to invest a large chunk of change into an aging player pas his prime?
Your thoughts?