The Hawks traded Rajon Rondo to the Clippers for guard Lou Williams, two second-round picks and cash considerations, according to a person familiar with the situation.
The deal occurred about 30 minutes before the NBA’s 3 p.m. Thursday trade deadline and was first reported by The Athletic. The second-round picks are for 2023 and 2027.
This was the only move the Hawks made before the deadline, so they’re holding on to power forward John Collins, who was certainly sought after by many teams. Having won eight of their past 10 games, the Hawks maintain continuity as they try to make the playoffs, but also bring in a player in Williams who meets a few needs and could potentially help them reach the postseason.
The Hawks signed Rondo in free agency in November on a two-year, $15 million deal, aiming to help keep the offense going when Trae Young goes to the bench and bring a veteran presence to a young team attempting to exit the rebuilding phase and make the playoffs. Although Rondo brought knowledge and mentorship to the team, he struggled on the court for much of the season, averaging 3.9 points and 3.5 assists in 14.9 minutes per game. He also wasn’t at his healthiest, playing in only 27 games.
Rondo has gained a reputation for playing well in the postseason, helping the Lakers to a title in the Orlando bubble last year, but he didn’t find much of a rhythm in the regular season for the Hawks.
This seems to be a good move for the Hawks, who get an experienced guard in Williams, who is 34 and in his 16th NBA season (he’s also from metro Atlanta, having attended South Gwinnett High School). In 42 games (21.9 minutes per game), Williams was averaging 12.1 points and 3.4 assists off the bench for the Clippers, so he brings more of a scoring pop than Rondo. Williams also brings shot creation, something the Hawks are still struggling with regarding the second unit, in Young’s absence.
With the Clippers, Williams won Sixth Man of the Year in 2018 and 2019. He had a stint with the Hawks in 2012 and 2013 and is on an expiring $8 million contract.
This make some sense from the Clippers’ perspective, as well, as they’re likely hoping he can give them a boost in the postseason.
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