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The trade deadline wrapped up Thursday, March 25 by seeing the Hawks trade veteran point guard Rajon Rondo to the Los Angeles Clippers for Lou Williams, two second-round picks and cash.
This was the only deal the team made before the deadline, although many rumors were circulating that John Collins and Kevin Huerter might be on the move. Atlanta was also among the teams that were expected to make a push for the Pelicans’ guard Lonzo Ball, but New Orleans ended up keeping the young guard.
The deal will free up cap space for the Hawks heading into free agency. Atlanta recently signed Rondo to a two-year, $15 million dollar deal this past offseason. Lou Williams contract expires at the end of the season.
This lands Lou Williams back in Atlanta for the first time since the 2013-14 season. Williams, an Atlanta native hailing from South Gwinnett High School, looks to be the piece to help the Hawks in the playoffs when the game slows down and they need a key player coming off the bench able to create their own shot.
The former 3-time Sixth Man of the Year will look to provide a spark coming off the bench for the Hawks second unit which struggles with ball movement when Trae Young is not in the game.
Williams’ veteran leadership will be crucial as the Hawks gear up for the playoffs.
