NBA Rumors: Rival executives keeping tabs on Clint Capela’s situation
Atlanta Hawks center Clint Capela is rumored to have become an attractive asset for multiple executives in the NBA. With HoopsHype's Michael Scotto learning more on the matter, we take a look at the reasons behind the interest in the Hawks big man.
After acquiring Dejounte Murray via a blockbuster trade in the offseason, the Hawks have certainly become an interesting team to follow. Featuring a trio of Murray, Trae Young and John Collins, Atlanta feature a dynamic young core with a flair for the game.
The Atlanta Hawks have certainly benefitted from Murray's arrival as they enjoy a 10-7 record for the season. However, there have been recent rumblings regarding league-wide interest in some of their players.
A rather recent rumor suggested that Hawks star big man John Collins had been a target for the Utah Jazz. Collins' name was brought up in trade talks in the offseason as well.
At this point in time, the star big man finds himself amid a few trade rumors. However, the Hawks may garner more interest as Michael Scotto reported league-wide interest from rival executives in Clint Capela.
Scotto mentioned this in his article when he wrote:
"With former sixth overall pick Onyeka Okongwu waiting in the wings, executives seeking frontcourt upgrades are monitoring the trade availability of [John] Collins and Capela."
Rival Executives monitoring the availability of Clint Capela: ahnfiredigital.com/nba/atlanta-ha…
Onyeka Okongwu has made large strides in development since last season. In this regard, the interest in pursuing an aging but productive big man such as Capela is justified.
However, an interesting point to note in these matters is the current approach the Hawks have taken toward trading Collins. Having engaged in discussions with the Suns, Atlanta may be inclined to move the star big man.
Also Read: Reports: Phoenix Suns have shown interest in John Collins
However, as per Shams Charania's report, the Suns may not be inclined to do this deal as Collins is currently on an expensive contract. With the big man being owed $125 million over five years, Collins may not be as valuable to other teams given his contract value.
Capela, meanwhile, definitely appears to be a more viable trade target for teams. Having signed a two-year extension with the Hawks in the offseason, Capela is a far more affordable piece who can offer a lot more on both ends of the floor.
With more teams gaging Capela's availability going forward, Atlanta may have a rather difficult problem on their hands.
Should the Atlanta Hawks entertain trade inquiries for Clint Capela?
As Michael Scotto mentioned earlier, there have been several inquiries regarding the availability of Atlanta Hawks big man Clint Capela. Given the rise of Onyeka Okongwu and the trade talks involving John Collins, the Hawks face a bit of a dilemma with Capela.
Clint Capela has proven himself to be a vital cog in Atlanta's system. As a double-double machine, the Hawks big man has averaged 11.5 points and 11.8 rebounds this season.
To add to this, Capela has also displayed a solid knack for shot blocking, which is a necessity for the relatively undersized Atlanta team.
Outside of his individual influence, Capela has repeatedly displayed his capability as being a pick-and-roll partner for Trae Young. In the process of setting solid screens and rolling to the rim, Capela impacts Atlanta's offense in more ways than one.
In this regard, the Hawks could benefit from retaining someone who plays with as much consistency as Clint Capela does.