The Hawks considerably boosted their second unit on Wednesday when it was announced that the team had acquired Ersan Ilyasova from the Philadelphia 76ers.
Ilyasova, who spent seven seasons with the Milwaukee Bucks, has been traded five times in the past 20 months. He may be packing his bags soon again, as his contract is expiring. However, in the meantime, the Hawks add a great stretch four off the bench. The team only gave up Tiago Splitter, a 2017 second rounder, and agreed to swap second rounders with the 76ers. Essentially, the team gave up second round assets to add some firepower with other east teams garnering or attempting to garner assets to take down the defending champion Cleveland Cavaliers. The Hawks essentially gave up nothing to get Ilyasova, who has played well for the 76ers.
While Ilyasova is far from a defensive superstar, he can hold his own while shooting a good 3-ball and offers good rebounding. He is a very good fundamental player who should fit in day one. Ilyasova is averaging 14.3 points per game and 5.9 rebounds per game while playing 27.3 points per game for the Sixers. The former teammate of Mike Dunleavy will slot in next to him in the second unit and will provide the Hawks more scoring on the low. Ilyasova is shooting 35% from beyond the arc this season, and this is a team who can use more shooters.
While this deal is a rental, the Hawks will retain Ilyasova’s Bird Rights. This means that if the team wants to sign him over the cap this offseason they will be able to do so. He also offers the team a contingency plan in the case that Paul Millsap walks this offseason. Ilyasova is a solid player and all Hawks fans should be happy to see him in volt green.
Side note:
Told Hawks not done dealing.
— Chris Vivlamore (@CVivlamoreAJC) February 23, 2017
The deadline is at 3 on the east coast, Hawks fans, keep your eyes peeled.