The Atlanta Hawks are currently three games under .500 and own the No. 9 seed in the East. However, despite not being much of a playoff threat as it stands, the team is unlikely to move on from one of their veterans in a potential buyout. According to Jovan Buha of The Athletic (subscription required), the Hawks are unlikely to buy out veteran Larry Nance Jr., who is in his first year with the team. Furthermore, Buva said he would “be surprised” if the Hawks buy him out.
“Nance is, by far, the best possible name as a solid defender and high-IQ player who does a little bit of everything including shooting, but league sources throughout the year have been quite clear that Atlanta coach Quin Snyder is a big fan of him. I’d be surprised if he gets bought out, but he’s worth bringing up first”
Atlanta Hawks Unlikely to Buy Out Larry Nance Jr.
Larry Nance Jr.’s First Season With the Hawks
The Hawks acquired the Akron native in the offseason from the New Orleans Pelicans as part of the Dejounte Murray trade. So far, Nance has appeared in just 23 games for the Hawks due to a hand injury. However, he has looked solid when he is on the court. On the year, he is averaging 8.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game. Additionally, he is shooting 51% from the field and 45.3% from the three-point line.
As it stands, it is clear he has fans in Atlanta. In addition to the team not wanting to buy him out, they reportedly wanted to keep him throughout the year. Earlier in the season, NBA insider Marc Stein (subscription required) reported that the Hawks did not want to trade Nance. Now that the deadline has come and gone, it is clear that Stein’s report was accurate.
“The Hawks continue to rebuff all trade interest in versatile veteran forward Larry Nance Jr. … just as they did throughout the offseason after Nance arrived in Atlanta alongside defensive ace Dyson Daniels in the Dejounte Murray trade.”
Nance is in the midst of a contract year. Though not a big name, it would not be a surprise if the Hawks make it a priority to bring the 32-year-old back in free agency.
The Hawks’ Trade Deadline
The Hawks were busy during this year’s trade deadline. Despite being on the cusp of the playoff picture, the Hawks were sellers at the deadline. They traded Cody Zeller, Bogdan Bogdanovic, and De’Andre Hunter. There is a lot of basketball remaining this season, but it is interesting that they went this route. Additionally, it is also interesting that they held on to Clint Capela, despite him losing his starting role and being an impending free agent.
Regardless, there is a lot to like about the Hawks. Star guard Trae Young was named an All-Star replacement, and players like Dyson Daniels and Onyeka Okongwu are having good seasons as well. The Hawks are not likely to be title contenders any time soon. However, they have a fun roster and should only improve from here.
Photo Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
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