The Hawks made one minor move at the NBA trade deadline Thursday by sending Mike Scott to the Suns for cash. The deal generated at $3.3 million traded player exception.
Scott started the season injured and has not played well in limited opportunities. He averaged a career-low 2.5 points and 2.1 rebounds in 10.8 minutes over 18 games this season.
The move does give the Hawks two open roster spots. According to a person familiar with the situation, the team will look at the buyout and call-up market to fill both of the spots.
One area the Hawks will look to fill is a third point guard. Hawks coach Mike Budenholzer said after practice, and before the deadline, on Thursday that the position is a need.
“I think the third point guard spot is something that is important to us,” Budenholzer said. “I think there are several different ways we are comfortable going. If something were to come up in the next little bit, it’s obviously an area of need. Also the guys who have come through, Gary Neal and Lamar Patterson, that route is something we are comfortable and very in touch with that group. One way or another, I anticipate us carrying a third point guard whether it be starting tomorrow or March 1 or whenever it may be. A third point guard is going to be important.”
Scott missed the start of the season after undergoing several non-surgical procedures on this left knee. He returned but played sparingly. He would ice his left foot after games and practices and at one point was seen in a walking boot. However, such an injury was never included on a medical update.
Scott still faces legal issues for his arrest on felony drug charges in Banks County two years ago.
