Breaking News: Major 3-Team Trade On the Horizon – Porzingis Heads to Atlanta as Celtics, Hawks, and Nets Strike a Deal!

When Boston sought to cut payroll, they eyed Kristaps Porzingis and his hefty $30.7 million contract. This led to a three-team trade involving the Atlanta Hawks and Brooklyn Nets, a move first reported by Shams Charania of The Athletic.

Trade Breakdown:

• Atlanta Hawks Receive: Kristaps Porzingis and a second-round pick.
• Brooklyn Nets Receive: Terance Mann and the No. 22 pick (originally belonging to Atlanta).
• Boston Celtics Receive: Georges Niang and a second-round pick.

Porzingis, with his size and shooting skills, potentially strengthens the Hawks. However, his injury history raises concerns. He’s managed to play 65 games in just one of the last ten seasons, and his injuries have often lingered into the playoffs—even affecting his performance during Boston’s 2024 title run. Last season, he averaged 19.5 points, shot 41.2% from beyond the arc, grabbed 6.8 rebounds, and blocked 1.5 shots per game. Teaming him with Trae Young—who is also recovering from injury—could create an intriguing dynamic. Coach Quin Snyder might try mixing Porzingis and Onyeka Okongwu on the court together.

This trade is a gamble for the Hawks, but considering the low price, it feels worthwhile. A key question remains: Will Atlanta extend Porzingis for multiple years at nearly $35 million annually, or let him go after one season? This decision might give insight into the new front office’s strategy.

On the flip side, Brooklyn now holds five first-round picks, representing 16.7% of all first-rounders. They’ve been eyeing trades to move up the draft.

As for Boston, they’ve made significant financial moves. With this trade and the recent deal involving Jrue Holiday, the Celtics have saved around $210 million in salary and luxury taxes. This includes only about $27 million in actual salary, but hefty penalties from being over the second apron drive these savings. Now sitting under the second apron, Boston faces a new reality, especially after Jayson Tatum’s Achilles injury impacted their playoff run, sparking other teams’ interest in Jaylen Brown.

Niang’s addition is also notable; he’s the type of rotational player that Boston fans will likely appreciate.

In the NBA, trades like this often stir discussions and fan reactions on social media, highlighting the ever-evolving strategies teams employ for success. With uncertainty surrounding Porzingis’s future, all eyes will be on the Hawks this season.

For more on NBA trades and player movements, you can refer to The Athletic.

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