Grade the trade: Mavs add new big man in mock 3-team deal with Hawks, Raptors

Grading the trade for the Atlanta Hawks

This trade would be a home run for the Hawks if they can sign Siakam to an extension. However, if Siakam is only a one-year rental, the trade is totally dependent on how Atlanta finishes the 2023-23 season.

As I previously mentioned, this trade would be eerily similar to what Toronto accomplished in the summer of 2018 when they acquired Kawhi Leonard for DeMar DeRozan, Jakob Poeltl, and a 2019 first-rounder.

Toronto was a playoff contender with DeRozan, but never made it to the NBA Finals. Although Atlanta didn't have the recent success Toronto enjoyed, they did make the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021. In the previous two seasons, Atlanta has underperformed, losing in the first round both times.

The addition of Siakam could push Atlanta over the top. With Siakam in the fold, the Hawks would be loaded with talent. After drafting well and acquiring multiple players through free agency and trades, the Hawks have a very deep roster.

Siakam would be a tertiary playmaker with the Hawks. He wouldn't be depended on to make plays for others as often as he did with the Raptors. He could focus on shot creation and spot-up shooting.

Essentially the Hawks would be replacing John Collins, who has regressed, with Siakam, a player who is more well-rounded and can help space the floor with his ball handling and spot-up shooting. The Hawks would also be clearing up more time for big man Onyeka Okongwu, who has starred in a limited role.

Javale McGee would also be sent over to Atalanta in this deal. With the trade of Capela, Atlanta does not have a veteran backup big man. McGee would provide rim running and solid interior defense in limited minutes behind Okongwu.

Potential starting lineup: Trae Young, Dejounte Murray, A.J. Griffin, Pascal Siakam, Onyeka Okongwu

The Hawks would receive a B- for this trade. Trading for Siakam is a huge plus, but the trade is so dependent on his preference to stay in Atlanta that it could harm them down the road.

A scenario where Atlanta trades for Siakam and he decides to sign elsewhere is catastrophic on some levels. However, the Hawks aren't purging their roster here, so the trade is worthwhile no matter what Siakam decides to do next off-season.