The Boston Celtics traded Kristaps Porzingis to the Atlanta Hawks as part of a strategy to reduce their salary commitments and get under the second apron of the luxury tax. Porzingis’s limited playoff availability due to an undisclosed illness meant the Celtics did not anticipate a major impact on their roster after his departure.
Atlanta Hawks Welcomes Porzingis to Boost Playoff Prospects
The Hawks are optimistic about the addition of Kristaps Porzingis to their squad for the upcoming season, viewing him as a significant asset in their efforts to advance in the playoffs. Atlanta values his ability to shoot three-pointers and protect the rim, skills that could help energize their lineup and improve team performance in the Eastern Conference.
Porzingis and Onyeka Okongwu Form Promising Frontcourt Duo
Brad Botkin of CBS Sports highlighted the complementary pairing of Porzingis with Hawks center Onyeka Okongwu, noting that their size and playing styles allow them to share the court effectively rather than simply rotating as replacements. This dual-center approach represents a strategic advantage for Atlanta compared to previous lineups, such as the Okongwu-Clint Capela combination.
As mentioned above, size matters again in the NBA and the Hawks now have two centers in Onyeka Okongwu and Porziņģis who complement one another well enough to actually share the court rather than just swap in for one another (as was the case with Okongwu and Clint Capela).
—Brad Botkin, CBS Sports
Porzingis’s Health and Availability Key to Hawks’ Success
While Porzingis is one of the top three-point shooting big men in the league, his tenure with the Celtics was marred by frequent absences. He appeared in only 99 of 164 possible regular-season games and saw limited action during the playoffs, playing solely in the 2024 <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA Finals before missing further postseason opportunities. For the Hawks to benefit fully from their investment, maintaining Porzingis’s health is essential, especially with hopes of securing a deep playoff run.
Eastern Conference Changes Create Opportunities for the Hawks
The Celtics face significant challenges heading into the next season, with star Jayson Tatum sidelined by a torn Achilles tendon. Similarly, the Indiana Pacers are uncertain without Tyrese Haliburton. These setbacks open a window for the Hawks, who are targeting a playoff berth in a weakened Eastern Conference, where Porzingis’s contributions could be crucial.
Porzingis’s Recent Performance Underlines His Potential Impact
During the last season, Porzingis averaged 19.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, statistics that showcase his ability to contribute offensively and on the boards. The Hawks anticipate that, if he remains healthy, these numbers could translate into key victories and a stronger postseason presence.