The Atlanta Hawks continue their active off-season, acquiring David Roddy from the Phoenix Suns in a move that sends E.J. Liddell to Phoenix. This trade extends a series of roster adjustments for the Hawks, who have been busy recalibrating their lineup in recent months.
A Continuous Shuffle
The trade signifies the second team switch for Liddell in less than a month. Liddell initially landed in Atlanta on July 6 from Ohio State, part of a multi-layered deal that sent star guard Dejounte Murray to the New Orleans Pelicans. The relatively brief stint saw Liddell engage in just eight games for the Hawks, as he struggled to find his footing in their rotation. His summer league performance reflected moderate success, with averages of 7.8 points and 4.0 rebounds per game.
Liddell, originally a second-round pick by New Orleans in the 2022 NBA draft, joins the Suns in search of more consistent playing time and the opportunity to make a larger impact. The Hawks, meanwhile, further their search for the right player dynamics by bringing in Roddy, a versatile forward with proven potential.
David Roddy's Impact
Selected 23rd overall in the 2022 NBA draft by Philadelphia, David Roddy had his draft rights acquired by Memphis. Roddy spent his rookie season splitting time between Memphis and Phoenix, where he displayed his multifaceted skillset. During the 2023-24 season, Roddy played 65 games, starting in 13 of them. He averaged 6.5 points and 3.2 rebounds per game, scoring in double figures in 18 of those contests. Notably, he matched his career high with 10 rebounds in two different games.
Roddy's stint in the summer league bolstered his resume further, as he started all five games for the Phoenix team and delivered impressive averages of 14.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game. As a starter, his numbers saw a considerable uptick to 11.1 points and 5.5 rebounds per game, demonstrating his capability to perform under greater responsibilities.
Strategic Acquisitions
This deal is part of a broader strategic approach for the Hawks, a team clearly intent on reinforcing their roster with talent and potential. In the initial trade that brought Liddell to Atlanta, the Hawks also secured the services of Dyson Daniels, Larry Nance Jr., and Cody Zeller. Additionally, the Hawks set themselves up for the future by acquiring two first-round picks—a 2025 first-round pick and a conditional 2027 first-round pick.
These moves suggest a forward-thinking strategy by Atlanta's front office, aiming to balance the immediate roster needs while simultaneously keeping an eye on long-term prospects. The reshuffle reflects their commitment to bolster their lineup through calculated risk-taking and aggressive maneuvers in the trade market.
As the off-season progresses, it remains to be seen how these new additions will mesh with the existing core of the Hawks' roster. The dual focus on immediate improvement and long-term potential signifies a dynamic approach aimed at elevating the franchise's competitive edge in the NBA.