The NBA offseason has already started, and teams are now starting to move assets in preparation for the next season. Following the successful NBA Draft Night last week, a handful of teams are now on the process of rebuilding. The latest in the trade news is between Atlanta Hawks and Portland Trailblazers. The Hawks traded Kent Bazemore to the Blazer's Evan Turner.
Last season, Turner averaged 6.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.9 assists. Despite not posting an impressive stats, Turner was key in Portland's rotation and has been a steady piece in terms of defense. It's just that his game has been declining for the past couple of season.
On the other hand, Bazemore averaged 11.6 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 2.3 assists for the Hawks last season. This is quite an impressive stat as he only saw 24.5 minutes per game of floor time the whole season.
Looking at these statistics, one can say that it is almost identical. However, it is important to note that Bazemore has a better 3-point shooting percentage compared to Turner. Last season, Bazemore shot 32 percent on three, while Turner only averaged 21.2 percent.
In a statement, Hawks General Manager and Head of Basketball Operations Travis Schlenk said, "We are happy to add Evan to our team, a veteran who we believe can help our club. The versatility he has shown throughout his career will be valuable for us this season."
Turner has played for several teams in his nine years in the league. He had played for Philadelphia, Boston, Indiana, and the Blazers. He was drafted second overall during the 2010 Draft.
As for Bazemore, he was an undrafted free agent. While wearing the Hawks uniform he had clocked 453 three-pointers his whole career. This is the eight most three-points made in franchise history, putting Bazemore in an impressive pedestal.
It had been a dismal investment for the Blazers when they decided to offer Turner $70 million in 2016. With this recent trade, the Blazers will have a true wing player in Bazemore who, statistically, is a better range shooter than Turner. Two of Portland's biggest stars, Seth Curry and Rodney Hood, are unrestricted free agents. There are rumors claiming that the two might decide to bring their talent to other cities in search of that championship ring. It is too early to call, but it would appear that teams are starting to rebuild their teams to have a better shot next season.
