Potential trade targets for the Hawks: Jaylen Brown

I’ve stated several times that I don’t think the Hawks should go all-in just yet; development of their young core players should remain their top priority. However, if reports are true, Travis Schlenk doesn’t agree with me. He’s apparently seen enough and is willing to cash in on his young assets for a proven star that can take some pressure off of Trae Young. So far, the Hawks have been heavily linked to Ben Simmons, but there could be an even better guard to target from a team in the Northeast.

If you missed the previous parts in this series, click the links below:

• Marcus Smart
• Ben Simmons

Jaylen Brown

Unlike Simmons, the Celtics aren’t actively shopping Jaylen Brown, but it does feel like things are getting stale in Boston. Once viewed as one of the most promising young duos in the Association, Brown and Jayson Tatum haven’t blossomed the way many thought they would — at least as far as wins are concerned. It might very well be time for the Celtics to see what they can get for Brown, and few teams, if any, can put together a better trade package than the Hawks.

Brown has really come into his own over the last three seasons; he made the All-Star Game last year and could very well make his second straight appearance this season. Through 32 games, Brown is averaging 24.1 points per game, shooting 45.9% from the field and 36% from three-point range. He’s also a plus-defender that could drastically improve the Hawks’ perimeter defense. Pairing the 25-year-old Brown with Trae Young would create the best young backcourt in basketball.

The primary reason I find this deal unlikely is because of the Celtics’ asking price. In the past, they’ve shown no willingness to deal Brown, and while they may be more open to the idea today, it doesn’t mean they’ll settle for anything less than a king’s ransom. Any potential trade with the Hawks would have to include John Collins as a starting point, and I imagine they would also want De’Andre Hunter and more in the deal. That’s too rich for my taste.