From Bradley Beal’s arrival in Phoenix to the Boston Celtics welcoming Kristaps Porzingis, the NBA off-season has been on a wild road. Despite it being just the mere beginning, trades and league-shocking moves are revealing themselves. Recently, the Atlanta Hawks joined the trend, offloading one of their younger talents in hopes of creating financial flexibility.

He was one of Trae Young’s favorite targets. But now he has a new home. This former dunk contest participant will head to the Utah Jazz joining All-Star Lauri Markkanen.

Trae Young has to say goodbye to his long-time teammate as the Hawks plan for the future

Last season, the Hawks’ decision to trade for Dejounte Murray didn’t bring about any significant improvements. They succeeded in making the playoffs, but the franchise was nowhere close to being a challenger, even with a skillful backcourt duo. Questions began erupting – what is the tale for the future? Just how can they utilize the prime of Trae Young and Murray’s tandem?

In hopes of making space to potentially upgrade the roster, the Hawks have decided to cut ties with high-flying forward John Collins. He will be heading to Utah in exchange for Rudy Gay and a future second-round pick. The primary intention behind this surprising decision lies with the Hawks trying to unload his expensive $78 million contract as ESPN reports.

Adrian Wojnarowski also noted that the Hawks aren’t done with making deals just yet. The organization is hopeful to make an impacting addition besides Young and Murray. Trading Collins makes gives the Hawks access to $25 million in trade exceptions, which is the most in the NBA. It will also benefit them in signing back some of their younger talents.

The ownership has given the green light to fall into the luxury tax. Hence, Collins’ exit might just be the start of a much longer thread for the Atlanta Hawks.

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The 19th pick in the 2017 draft made an unforgettable, electric highlight reel in his short time with the franchise. He was the aerial vigilante Trae Young always seemed to find. His explosive athleticism and powerful leaping abilities make him a dynamic forward in the Jazz’s revamped offensive system. With Markkanen and rookie center Walker Kessler, Collins could be a great addition to the frontcourt.

Will it be enough to drive the Jazz back into the playoffs? Only the coming season will answer that question.

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