'We don't want to wait' for Hawks to to build a contender
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The Dukes & Bell podcast episode dives into the Atlanta Hawks' offseason outlook following a disappointing playoff exit despite a strong regular-season push to secure the sixth seed. Hosts Dukes and Bell express frustration with the team's lack of urgency, rejecting the idea of prolonged patience despite the franchise's recent progress. They debate whether to retain veteran C.J. McCollum on a team-friendly deal or pursue younger, more versatile talent, emphasizing the need for immediate impact. The conversation shifts to potential trade targets, with a strong preference for Jalen Brown over Giannis Antetokounmpo due to age, fit, and long-term value. The hosts also critique the development of young players like Ace Anewell and Richarce Jackson, questioning the franchise's ability to integrate and maximize talent. They stress the importance of adding size, improving depth, and avoiding regression, calling for bold moves to build a contender now rather than waiting for a future that may never come.
The Hawks should prioritize immediate improvement over long-term patience, especially after reaching the playoffs.
C.J. McCollum is a viable short-term fit if he accepts a team-friendly, multi-year deal under $63 million.
Jalen Brown is a better trade target than Giannis Antetokounmpo due to age, athleticism, and fit with the Hawks' roster.
The franchise must address the development and role of young players like Richarce Jackson and Ace Anewell.
Drafting a big man is risky—most prospects take time to develop, and the Hawks can't afford to wait.
…and 1 more takeaway available in PodZeus
The Patience Paradox: Why Waiting Isn't an Option
“I don't want to wait. Let's make it good as fast as we possibly can.”
C.J. McCollum: The Veteran Bridge or a Dead End?
The discussion centers on whether to retain C.J. McCollum, with hosts weighing his leadership and fit against his age (34) and declining role. They suggest a three-year, $63 million deal as a middle ground to keep him without overcommitting.
Giannis vs. Jalen Brown: The Trade Target Debate
“If you're going to make a deal, that's the deal I made. Giannis with an injury and you got Giannis two years older than Jalen Brown for what it's worth.”
The Development Crisis: Ace Anewell and Richarce Jackson
“He wasn't playing significant minutes, that he wasn't helping the team win... I just feel like whatever happened where he went off the rails...”
Drafting Big Men: The Unicorn Problem
The hosts highlight the risk of drafting a big man, noting that only a few like Victor Wembanyama are truly ready immediately. They argue that most prospects need time, and the Hawks can't afford to wait for development.
“If you're going to make a deal, that's the deal I made. Giannis with an injury and you got Giannis two years older than Jalen Brown for what it's worth.”
“I don't want to wait. Let's make it good as fast as we possibly can.”
“I'm impatient, but I'm not desperate where I'm going to give up all of this and really not get the return on my investment.”
Hosts
Guests
Atlanta Hawks
other
C.J. McCollum
person
Giannis Antetokounmpo
person
Jalen Brown
person
Richarce Jackson
person
Ace Anewell
person
Brian Geltziler
person
Mike Griffith
person
NBA Serious Radio
media
De'Aaron Fox
person
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