Hawks and Suns Agree to Player-Swap Deal
In a significant move that continues the Atlanta Hawks' roster reshuffling, the team has acquired David Roddy from the Phoenix Suns in exchange for E.J. Liddell. This trade marks a pivotal moment for both players and their respective teams, further intensifying the NBA's off-season activity.
Liddell’s journey through the league in the past month has been nothing short of a whirlwind. Initially, Atlanta acquired Liddell as part of a multi-player trade involving the Ohio State alum back on July 6. This deal saw star guard Dejounte Murray head to the New Orleans Pelicans. The package that brought Liddell to the Hawks also included two first-round draft picks, underscoring the Hawks' plans to invest in future talent while navigating the complex landscape of NBA trades.
The former second-round pick by the New Orleans Pelicans in 2022, Liddell has faced challenges adapting to various team environments. With Atlanta, he participated in just eight games, where he saw limited playing time. During the summer league, however, Liddell showcased some potential by averaging 7.8 points and 4.0 rebounds per game. Despite his efforts, the Hawks saw an opportunity to make a strategic shift, opting to trade Liddell to the Suns.
David Roddy’s addition to the Hawks could bring a fresh dynamic to the team. Selected as the No. 23 overall pick by Philadelphia in the 2022 NBA draft, Roddy's rights were later acquired by Memphis. Roddy had a diverse rookie season that saw him splitting time between Memphis and Phoenix. During the 2023-24 season, Roddy started 13 of the 65 games he played, averaging a steady 6.5 points and 3.2 rebounds per game. Notably, he scored in double figures in 18 games and matched his career-high 10 rebounds in two contests. As a starter, Roddy's numbers improved, with averages of 11.1 points and 5.5 rebounds per game.
Roddy also made his mark during the summer league, starting in five games for Phoenix, where he averaged 14.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists. His performance undoubtedly caught the eyes of the Hawks' management, warranting their decision to finalize the trade.
Trade Implications for Atlanta
This trade is part of a larger strategy for the Hawks as they continue to reconfigure their roster. Alongside Roddy, Atlanta also acquired Dyson Daniels, Larry Nance Jr., and Cody Zeller in the initial deal that saw Liddell come to Atlanta. The Hawks are also set to receive valuable future assets, including a 2025 first-round pick and a conditional 2027 first-round pick, enhancing their long-term planning and flexibility.
For the Suns, acquiring Liddell provides them with a young player who, despite limited NBA experience, has the potential to grow. His previous stint during the summer league, where he provided solid averages, indicates room for development. Meanwhile, Phoenix will look to integrate Liddell into a role that harnesses his strengths while aligning with their team strategy.
The Hawks have emphasized building a roster that balances seasoned talent with promising young players. Roddy's versatility and summer league performance make him a valuable addition to a team looking to enhance its competitiveness and depth.
Final Thoughts
Overall, this trade, which saw David Roddy head to Atlanta and E.J. Liddell move to Phoenix, exemplifies the ever-evolving tactics of NBA teams during the off-season. Both players now have new opportunities to make their mark and contribute positively to their respective franchises. The Hawks' continuous adjustments hint at a broader vision, one that not only aims for immediate impact but also secures a robust foundation for future seasons. As the new recruits integrate with their teams, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how these changes pan out on the court.