In a move that underscores ongoing roster adjustments, the Atlanta Hawks have finalized a trade to acquire David Roddy from the Phoenix Suns, sending E.J. Liddell the other way. This transaction is part of a broader strategy for the Hawks, who are incessantly reshaping their lineup.
A Brief Stint for Liddell
E.J. Liddell's stay in Atlanta was notably short. Initially brought to the team from Ohio State as part of a multi-player exchange that included sending Dejounte Murray to the New Orleans Pelicans on July 6, Liddell heads to Phoenix after less than a month. Despite being part of a trade package that also gained the Hawks two first-round draft picks, Liddell saw action in only eight games for the Hawks, contributing limited minutes. During the summer league, he posted modest averages of 7.8 points and 4.0 rebounds per game.
Drafted in the second round in 2022 by the New Orleans Pelicans, Liddell appears to be on a whirlwind journey through the NBA. Phoenix marks the second team he will join within a month, suggesting he's still searching for the right fit.
Roddy's Role and Potential
In exchange, the Hawks gain David Roddy, originally selected as the No. 23 overall pick by Philadelphia in the 2022 NBA Draft, though his draft rights were subsequently acquired by Memphis. Roddy has shown versatility and potential through his rookie season, which he split between Memphis and Phoenix. During the 2023-24 season, he managed to start 13 of 65 games, averaging 6.5 points and 3.2 rebounds per game. Roddy's performance peaks were evident as he scored in double figures in 18 games and matched his career high of 10 rebounds twice.
As a starter, Roddy's numbers were more impressive, averaging 11.1 points and 5.5 rebounds per game, hinting at a player who could potentially thrive with more consistent playing time. His summer league stats are equally promising, with averages of 14.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists across five games for the Phoenix team.
A Comprehensive Rebuild
The arrival of Roddy is just one part of a larger strategic overhaul for the Hawks. The trade that initially brought Liddell to Atlanta also included acquisitions of Dyson Daniels, Larry Nance Jr., and Cody Zeller. Along with player assets, the Hawks secured future draft capital—a 2025 first-round pick and a conditional 2027 first-round pick—ensuring flexibility for future moves and potential growth.
This trade fits into a pattern of dynamic roster management by the Hawks' front office, aimed at positioning the team for both immediate competitiveness and long-term success. With Roddy now in the fold, the Hawks add to their depth and athleticism, banking on his potential and ability to adapt quickly to a new environment. It's a calculated risk but one that could pay off if Roddy continues to develop and contribute significantly.
As the team undergoes these significant changes, the focus will undoubtedly be on integrating new players and finding the chemistry necessary to compete at a high level. The coming seasons will reveal whether these strategic decisions translate into on-court success, marking an exciting period of transition and potential for the Atlanta Hawks.