One month ago, it was reported that the Atlanta Hawks were expected to seek a trade to move on from starting center Clint Capela. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Hawks could trade Capela and completely re-tool their roster as they have the No. 1 pick in next week’s NBA Draft.
“Capela, who turned 30 on Saturday, will have an expiring contract next season at $22.3 million after averaging 11.5 points, 10.6 rebounds and 1.5 blocked shots this season. The presence of Onyeka Okongwu and potential arrival of another big man through the draft, with Atlanta holding the No. 1 overall pick for the first time since 1975, is expected to make Capela available.”
Now, recent reports regarding specific teams who could pursue Capela have surfaced. According to Matt Moore of Action Network, the Memphis Grizzlies, Washington Wizards, New Orleans Pelicans, and Chicago Bulls have “expressed interest” in Capela.
Last season, Capela averaged 11.5 points, 10.6 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 1.5 blocks per game.
The Grizzlies, Bulls, Wizards, and Pelicans are expected to show interest in Clint Capela, per @HPbasketball
“The Hawks are expected to trade one of Trae Young or Dejounte Murray, but not both. They’ll keep one to build around.
Clint Capela is a popular trade target with the… pic.twitter.com/MjBls5BIbg— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 18, 2024
4 Teams Reportedly Interested in Atlanta Hawks Starter
Why Teams Are Pursuing Clint Capela
Capela remains a solid center 10 years into his NBA career. He is a great rim protector and is a major presence in the paint. Additionally, Capela is a top rebounder in the league and is a good finisher. The former Houston Rockets big man is one of the league’s last traditional centers. He does not take his game out of the paint but still provides value. Furthermore, he has made the postseason nearly every year of his career and offers a good veteran presence.
Since he is on an expiring contract, it makes a potential trade for Capela interesting. At 30 years old and coming off a below-average season by his standards, it makes sense for the Hawks to trade him rather than extend him long-term. However, for teams interested in acquiring him, it is possible he will only be there for one season before leaving next summer. Still, it seems evident Capela is a popular trade candidate. Many teams are going to have interest in his services for next season. It will be interesting to see which team ends up acquiring him. Additionally, it will be worth monitoring to see if they agree to an extension with Capela before the start of next season.
The Last Word on Clint Capela and the Atlanta Hawks
After four seasons with the Hawks, it seems like Capela’s time with the time comes to an end. Currently, it seems that he will end up with the New Orleans Pelicans, Chicago Bulls, Memphis Grizzlies, or Washington Wizards. However, with the offseason having just begun, it is likely more suitors will be revealed in the coming weeks.
