4: Los Angeles Lakers receive: PF Josh Smith, SF Marvin Williams
Atlanta Hawks receive: PF Pau Gasol, PF Josh McRoberts, SF Christian Eyenga
Although the Atlanta Hawks have had their nucleus together for quite some time, they have not been able to put together a deep playoff run. Joe Johnson, Al Horford and Josh Smith have brought the Hawks to the post-season many times, but they cannot reach the Conference Finals.
Johnson’s contract is too big for the Hawks to move, Horford is a valuable, young big-men, leaving Smith as a great piece for a trade. The Hawks and Smith were rumored to part ways, and with a disappointing loss to the Celtics in the post-season, this could be the season the Hawks make the trade.
For the Lakers, this adds an athletic big man who can work extremely well with Andrew Bynum. Smith can perform on both ends of the court, with his forte being on defense. The Lakers need to add more youth to their roster and Smith is a rising star in the NBA.
Gasol would work wonders for the Hawks as he brings a championship attitude to the team and is someone who can help Horford. Horford struggled against opposing big men, but Gasol would be great to have in the paint.
Next Page: Pau Gasol Trade Proposal 3
