The NBA trade deadline is quickly approaching and the rumors are heating up around the Atlanta Hawks. ESPN's Brian Windhorst first reported that the team was considering breaking up the core group of Al Horford, Jeff Teague and Kyle Korver in what would end up being a blockbuster deal. Several teams of course have expressed interest in grabbing a key player in order to make a second-half push to the playoffs. However, are the Hawks as serious as the reports say?
Boston Celtics vice president Danny Ainge admitted that he is always listening to trade deals. The team has deep pockets in terms of draft picks and assets which make them primed for a deal at the deadline. They were one of the first teams linked to a trade involving Horford. However, Ainge when on Toucher and Rich radio and said that he did not believe Atlanta was willing to move a key guy. It is unclear just how serious Atlanta is, but Ainge is excited none the less at the idea of getting someone like Horford.
"I think that is one of the guys across the league that Danny Ainge is the most excited about," said Chris Mannix of Yahoo Sports. "He is a four man that would fit right into what Boston is trying to do. It would cost a lot of money to re-sign him in the offseason, but I think Boston is willing to play it, because they haven't paid a lot of money for players in recent years."
The issue with a trade for a player like Horford is that he will not come cheap. The Celtics would be required to give up someone like Jae Crowder or Tyler Zeller. Isaiah Thomas might even be mention. However, according to the Boston Herald, the team would rather deal David Lee, Amir Johnson or Jonas Jerebko, players no one wants. They would also likely have to give up a stashed first-round draft pick for a player that will exit come free agency.
The Celtics continue to get linked to trade deals despite their lack of actual moves in the past. The team could be a landing spot for Tobias Harris, Markieff Morris or even Timofey Mozgov at the deadline. They are all players being reported as available. However, the chances Boston makes a big-time move still appear slim.
Ainge is desperate to get marquee players to come to Boston. That is why he has stashed picks and assets. The offseason could be more fruitful to Boston. The team could then target Horford along with Dwight Howard. DeMarcus Cousins will likely still be lingering in trade talk. Fans can count on Ainge at least exploring all options.
