The Wilson Chandler Trades, Part I: The Eastern Conference

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Dec 30, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Kyle Korver (26) and forward Paul Millsap (4) and guard Thabo Sefolosha (25) on the court against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the fourth quarter at Philips Arena. The Hawks defeated the Cavaliers 109-101. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /

ESPN’s NBA Trade Machine Results: Hawks Unaffected, Nuggets Unaffected

The Trade Machine suggests some balance to this trade. Similarly, at around $25 million, the inherent payroll assumptions would be nearly identical.

Why the Hawks would do it:

For Gary Harris. After a rocky start, Harris showed great improvement in his second season. His game is well rounded, and at 21 years of age, he has become one of the more promising young SGs in the league. The Hawks only have two SGs on their roster, in Kyle Korver and Tim Hardaway Jr. Korver is 35, and Hardaway seems more fit for a bench role. Locking down Gary Harris as a young but essentially proven SG to move forward with could be the push that makes a Millsap trade worthwhile.

Chandler and Faried are both very athletic forwards that would make for solid additions to the notoriously fast-paced Hawks offense. While both players have starter credentials, they would probably make better contributions as a Hawks bench-duo. The Hawks would lose their veteran play-makers. But perhaps the depth and versatility they would acquire has a greater value. This especially applies when the future in considered.

Why the Nuggets would do it:

They would have Paul Millsap as their starting PF.

If that’s not enough for you, consider this; a starting 5 of Emmanuel Mudiay, Kyle Korver, Danilo Gallinari, Paul Millsap, and Nikola Jokic. Will Barton would still come off the bench, but he’d likely average more minutes, shot attempts, and points than Kyle Korver.

Does that not sound like a recipe for success?

With Darrell Arthur, Thabo Sefolosha, Jameer Nelson, Jusuf Nurkic, and a trio of stud rookies anxiously awaiting their court-time, every single position would be solid. Faried and Chandler are both talented, but expendable. After this trade, the Nuggets’ talent would be better spread out. They would also have a stronger starting 5, and a more clear bench rotation to boot. The Nuggets would be in great shape.

Next: Boston Celtics

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