Atlanta Hawks and Phoenix Suns Engage in Roster Shake-Up
In a notable move that continues the Atlanta Hawks' trend of roster reshuffling, the franchise has acquired David Roddy from the Phoenix Suns. This trade sees E.J. Liddell heading to Phoenix, marking his second team switch in less than a month.
A Brief Stint for Liddell in Atlanta
Liddell's journey through the NBA has been tumultuous. Initially drafted as a second-round pick by the New Orleans Pelicans in 2022, Liddell found himself donning the Hawks’ uniform for a brief eight-game period. His playing time with Atlanta was limited, leading to modest averages of 7.8 points and 4.0 rebounds per game during the summer league.
On July 6, Atlanta had acquired Liddell from Ohio State in a multi-player trade that notably sent Dejounte Murray to New Orleans. The Hawks also received two first-round draft picks in that transaction. Now, Liddell embarks on the next chapter of his career with Phoenix, where he will look to make a more significant impact.
David Roddy: A Rising Talent
David Roddy, selected as the No. 23 overall pick by Philadelphia in the 2022 NBA draft, saw his rights traded to Memphis before splitting his rookie season between Memphis and Phoenix. Roddy's tenure showcased his potential as he started 13 of 65 games during the 2023-24 season. He managed to average 6.5 points and 3.2 rebounds per game, with particularly standout performances that included scoring in double figures in 18 games and achieving his career-high of 10 rebounds twice. As a starter, he excelled further, averaging 11.1 points and 5.5 rebounds per game.
During the summer league, Roddy started in five games for Phoenix, delivering impressive averages of 14.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game. His consistent performance has positioned him as a valuable asset for the Hawks as they continue to refine their roster.
Additional Acquisitions and Future Prospects for the Hawks
The trade that brought Liddell to Atlanta also saw the Hawks acquiring Dyson Daniels, Larry Nance Jr., and Cody Zeller. This influx of talent, combined with the upcoming first-round picks—one in 2025 and a conditional one in 2027—place the Hawks in a strong position for future seasons. The strategic acquisitions are indicative of Atlanta’s long-term vision and commitment to building a competitive, dynamic squad.
General manager Landry Fields' aggressive off-season moves reflect a broader trend in the NBA, where teams continually re-evaluate and adjust player rosters in pursuit of the right balance. For the Hawks, these trades go beyond short-term gains, hinting at a meticulously planned strategy aimed at sustained success and deeper playoff runs.
Roddy's addition to the Hawks roster is anticipated to bolster the team's performance on both ends of the court. His rebounding skills, alongside his scoring capabilities, add depth to the Hawks’ lineup. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how quickly he can integrate into the team's dynamics and bring his summer league form to the regular season.
Conclusion
As the new NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on Atlanta to assess how these strategic trades will unfold on the court. The Hawks have certainly made bold moves, and the acquisitions of players like Roddy signal their intent to compete at higher levels. For both Roddy and Liddell, this trade represents fresh opportunities and the chance to make significant contributions to their new teams. Sports enthusiasts will eagerly await to see how these changes translate into game-time performance and overall team success.