FILE - Phoenix Suns forward David Roddy (21) warms up before an NBA basketball game Tuesday, March 5, 2024, in Denver. The Atlanta Hawks acquired David Roddy from the Phoenix Suns in exchange for E.J. Liddell in a swap of power forwards on Monday, July 29, 2024. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski, File)
In a strategic move during the NBA offseason, the Phoenix Suns traded forward David Roddy to the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for forward E.J Liddell. This trade marks a significant shift for both teams as they prepare for the upcoming season.
The Trade Details
Both teams officially confirmed the trade on Monday, exchanging power forwards. David Roddy, originally the 23rd overall pick by Philadelphia in the 2022 NBA Draft, has shown potential during his time with Memphis and Phoenix. Roddy started 13 of the 65 games he played in the 2023-24 season, averaging 6.5 points and 3.2 rebounds per game. He also had notable performances in the summer league, where he started in five games and averaged 14.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists.
E.J. Liddell, on the other hand, was a second-round pick from Ohio State by New Orleans in 2022. Liddell had limited playing time with the Pelicans, appearing in only eight games last season. However, he demonstrated his capabilities during the summer league, averaging 7.8 points and 4.0 rebounds for Atlanta’s team. This trade marks Liddell’s second move in less than a month, as he was part of the package that brought high-scoring guard Dejounte Murray to the New Orleans Pelicans from the Hawks earlier in July.
Strategic Implications
For the Phoenix Suns, this trade is seen as a cost-saving measure. The team is currently above the second tax apron and needed to balance its salary cap. By trading Roddy, who had a strong summer league performance, the Suns aim to restructure their roster and maintain financial flexibility. Additionally, the Suns have been active in the offseason, recently signing Tyus Jones to fill their point guard vacancy.
For the Atlanta Hawks, acquiring David Roddy provides them with a versatile forward who can contribute both offensively and defensively. Roddy’s ability to score in double figures and his rebounding skills will be valuable assets for the Hawks. The team continues to rebuild and strategize following their trade of Dejounte Murray, aiming to enhance their competitive edge in the upcoming season.
Conclusion
This trade between the Phoenix Suns and Atlanta Hawks highlights the ongoing efforts by both teams to optimize their rosters and prepare for the new NBA season, the move of David Roddy to Atlanta and the arrival of E.J Liddell in Phoenix are expected to bring fresh dynamics to their respective teams. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these changes impact the performance of both squads in the highly anticipated 2024-25 NBA season.
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