Davis Bertans is in the midst of a breakout season. Many may remember him from his days as a role player with the Spurs after they plucked him from the EuroLeague, but he has been one of the surprise breakout players in the NBA this season after being dealt to the Washington Wizards. In a more featured role, he’s averaging 15.4 points and 4.9 rebounds per game. Apparently, his uptick in play has the attention of the Atlanta Hawks. According to Chase Hughes of NBC Sports, the Wizards are fielding calls on Bertans, and the Sixers, Hawks, Lakers, Celtics, and Nuggets have emerged as suitors.
We know the Hawks showed interest in Andre Drummond, but like the Pistons’ big man, Bertans will be a free agent after this offseason. Acquiring Bertans would make little sense. The Wizards reportedly have interest in re-signing him, so he will not be given away for nickels. The other teams mentioned are contending teams that would spend a higher price for his services.
He serves as a catch-and-shoot power forward. While it would be great to have some more shooting on the Hawks, power forward is arguably their most crowded position on the roster with John Collins and Jabari Parker at their disposal.
It seems Schlenk his doing his due diligence to improve as a basketball team. However, the interest in short-term contracts is befuddling. Bertans is a solid player, but given his contract, and the fact he entering his prime at 27 years old, it makes little to no sense for the Hawks to acquire him.