Hawks Continue Roster Reshuffle with Addition of David Roddy
The Atlanta Hawks have made another significant move in their ongoing roster transformation, acquiring David Roddy from the Phoenix Suns in exchange for E.J. Liddell. This trade not only marks a continuation of the Hawks' strategy to reconfigure their team but also highlights the flurry of activity surrounding Liddell.
The Transaction Details
In a transaction reflective of Atlanta's aggressive approach to building a competitive roster, the Hawks parted ways with E.J. Liddell, a player they had only recently acquired from Ohio State. The initial trade had seen Liddell arrive in Atlanta as part of a blockbuster deal involving Dejounte Murray heading to New Orleans on July 6, which also included two first-round draft picks.
Unfortunately for Liddell, his time in Atlanta was short-lived. Having been drafted as a second-round pick by the New Orleans Pelicans in 2022, Liddell managed to appear in just eight games for the Hawks, receiving limited playing time. Despite showing promise during the summer league with averages of 7.8 points and 4.0 rebounds per game, Liddell was unable to secure a more permanent spot in the rotation.
David Roddy's Journey
David Roddy, the key acquisition in this trade, brings a different profile to the Hawks. Selected as the No. 23 overall pick by Philadelphia in the 2022 NBA draft, Roddy's rights were subsequently traded to Memphis. During his rookie season, Roddy split his time between Memphis and Phoenix, gaining valuable experience and showing flashes of his potential.
Roddy's stats from the 2023-24 season showcase his versatility and growth. Appearing in 65 games and starting 13 of them, he averaged 6.5 points and 3.2 rebounds per game. He demonstrated his scoring ability by registering double figures in 18 games and matched his career high with 10 rebounds in two separate contests. As a starter, Roddy's numbers improved significantly, averaging 11.1 points and 5.5 rebounds per game.
During the summer league, Roddy further cemented his value by starting in five games for the Phoenix team and averaging 14.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per contest. These performances likely caught the attention of Hawks' management, leading to the decision to bring him into the fold.
Broader Implications for the Hawks
This trade is more than just a player swap; it is part of a broader strategy employed by the Hawks to build a resilient and adaptable roster. Along with Roddy, the deal included the acquisition of Dyson Daniels, Larry Nance Jr., and Cody Zeller, players who can provide depth and experience to the Hawks' lineup. Moreover, Atlanta has secured a 2025 first-round pick and a conditional 2027 first-round pick as part of the deal, providing future assets that could prove invaluable.
The Hawks’ approach to rebuilding and reshuffling is emblematic of an organization determined to find the right mix of talent and potential. By continually adjusting their roster, they are positioning themselves to be more competitive in the ever-challenging NBA landscape.
Looking Ahead
As the new season approaches, the pressure will be on Roddy and his new teammates to make an immediate impact. For Roddy, joining the Hawks represents an opportunity to build on his promising summer league performance and carve out a more significant role. Meanwhile, Atlanta fans will be watching closely to see how these moves translate on the court, hoping that this latest flurry of trades is the missing piece in their quest for success.
As Atlanta continues to navigate through these transformative times, one thing is clear: the Hawks are committed to doing whatever it takes to rise in the NBA standings. With David Roddy now in the mix, the team’s reshuffling efforts take another intriguing turn.