Would Adding Pascal Siakam Make the Atlanta Hawks a Championship Contender?

John E. Sokolowski

The Atlanta Hawks is a team that has hung around the middle of the pack for the last couple of decades. However, they now have more star power than ever. Although the 2015 Hawks team featured four all-stars, they didn't quite have a superstar and showtime talent like Trae Young. Last off-season, the Hawks made a splash when they traded for Dejounte Murray. Although they still couldn’t make it past the first round of the playoffs this season, there is a lot of optimism with a fresh new off-season under coach Quin Snyder.

Over the last couple of weeks, rumors claimed that the Hawks are interested in trading with Toronto for Pascal Siakam. Most of it may be speculation, but there has been confirmation that the two sides have discussed a potential deal. Not only that but it was also reported that Trae Young and Pascal Siakam recently followed each other on social media. One major concern is that Siakam has refused to give any commitment to re-signing next offseason if he was to land with a new team. However, trade talks continue to happen and there is a chance that Siakam could be an Atlanta Hawk before next season.

Adding Siakam to the Hawks roster gives them an instant replacement and a massive upgrade over former Hawks forward John Collins. Siakam can defend multiple positions, shoot the ball from outside, and create his own shot as well as anyone in his position. Shot creation from the forward position is something that the Hawks have lacked for a long time. Adding Siakam gives the Hawks another guy who can take pressure off Trae Young and make the game easier for everyone around him. It is very hard to deny that a trio of Young, Murray, and Siakam could compete for a title next season. Although it may not put them over teams like Boston, Phoenix, and Denver, the Hawks certainly would have the potential to make the conference finals next season if they can pull off a trade for Pascal Siakam.