Shams has not stopped dropping bombs on Hawks fans all day. First, he announced the signing of Jabari Parker to a two-year, $13 million deal. Now, he is reporting Atlanta is sending second-year forward/center, Omari Spellman, to Golden State.
Sources: Atlanta is trading C/F Omari Spellman to the Golden State Warriors.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 8, 2019
Spellman was the last pick of the first round in the 2018 draft, joining fellow rookies Trae Young and Kevin Huerter. His freshman season was a bit of a roller coaster ride. When on the court, he had his moments as a stretch four or five that could defend multiple positions, but his weight was a lingering issue. It cost him a couple months of last season and even forced him to the G-League. He reportedly lost 50 pounds and returned to the team but showed up to Summer League way out of shape again. Apparently, that was enough for the Hawks to push for a move.
In return, Atlanta picks up a center in Damian Jones and a future second-round pick, according to Shams.
Jones is a former 30th overall pick as well and entering his fourth season. He averaged 5.4 points on 71.6% shooting, 3.1 rebounds and 1.2 assists last year. His PER of 15.3 suggests there is potential, but he was never able to crack the full-time rotation in Golden State. That should be much easier to do in Atlanta – where the center position is extremely thin. Jones will likely compete with rookie Bruno Fernando for backup minutes behind Alex Len.