In the first blockbuster trade of the NBA offseason, the Hawks acquired Dejounte Murray from the Spurs in exchange for Danilo Gallinari and multiple first-round picks. While the excitement surrounding a Young-Murray backcourt encapsulates Hawks fans, a hard goodbye is attached to the trade — Gallo.
It's hard to say goodbye. We always know what we leave behind but not what we'll find in front of us.
I leave behind good guys, special fans and two unforgettable seasons. We flew high Hawks…I'll never forget this!
Thank you Atlanta from the bottom of my heart.
Gallo. pic.twitter.com/u9jp9jLPMW— DANILO GALLINARI (@gallinari8888) June 30, 2022
The Italian big man captured the hearts and minds of Atlanta fans. In just two seasons, he became a fan favorite and an integral part of the team’s magical postseason run two seasons ago.
After signing with the Hawks, Gallo averaged 12.4 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in 24.7 minutes per contest. Though he might be 33-years-old, he’s been solid at every stop during his career. Gallinari has spent time in Atlanta, Denver, New York, Los Angeles, and Oklahoma City and is as consistent as they come. He’ll give you effort on the defensive end, but he’s best known for his silky-smooth jumper as a near 7-footer.
Gallinari led the team in points and rebounds off the bench in the regular season and playoffs. The veteran big man is as efficient of a shooter as any in the Association — 43% from the field, 39% from deep, and 92% from the line.
I’ve loved Gallo since he joined the Hawks. He’s provided excellent leadership and scoring off the bench, but the team is headed in a different direction.
From all Hawks fans, thank you, Danilo. Here’s the most notable play of his Hawks career — ripping Joel Emiid and shutting the door in Game 7 against the Sixers to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals.
https://twitter.com/KingPoloRich/status/1542522644804689922?s=20&t=N8uJXGS6Z_po-SkmQVqLRg
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Photographer: Melissa Tamez/Icon Sportswire
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