'We don't want to wait' for Hawks to to build a contender

Dukes & Bell12mMay 7, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

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.

Key Takeaways
1

The Hawks should prioritize immediate improvement over long-term patience, especially after reaching the playoffs.

2

C.J. McCollum is a viable short-term fit if he accepts a team-friendly, multi-year deal under $63 million.

3

Jalen Brown is a better trade target than Giannis Antetokounmpo due to age, athleticism, and fit with the Hawks' roster.

4

The franchise must address the development and role of young players like Richarce Jackson and Ace Anewell.

5

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

Chapters
0:00
2 min

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.

Highlight
2:00
2 min

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.

4:00
2 min

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.

Highlight
6:00
2 min

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...

Highlight
8:00
2 min

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.

High-Impact Quotes
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.
Bell11:44
Viral: 90.0
I don't want to wait. Let's make it good as fast as we possibly can.
Dukes0:50
Viral: 85.0
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.
Dukes5:39
Viral: 78.0
Speakers

Hosts

DukesBell

Guests

Mike GriffithBrian Geltziler
Topics Discussed
Hawks Offseason Strategy95%Trade Target Evaluation90%C.J. McCollum Contract Decision85%Young Player Development80%Drafting Big Men75%Fan Patience and Expectations70%Team Building Through the Process65%Roster Turnover and Competition60%
People & Brands

Atlanta Hawks

other

28xPositive

C.J. McCollum

person

12xMixed

Giannis Antetokounmpo

person

8xNegative

Jalen Brown

person

7xPositive

Richarce Jackson

person

6xNegative

Ace Anewell

person

5xMixed

Brian Geltziler

person

5xPositive

Mike Griffith

person

3xNeutral

NBA Serious Radio

media

2xNeutral

De'Aaron Fox

person

2xPositive

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