NBA Trade Rumors: Atlanta Hawks target Bulls' $19 million  guard as Trae Young's backup

The Atlanta Hawks are expected to be buyers in the trade market in the coming weeks, with a new target reportedly emerging. Atlanta is in dire need of backcourt depth behind Trae Young and Dyson Daniels and is expected to explore options on the trade block.

The Hawks face a challenging salary cap situation and have limited flexibility in their trade options. On Friday, Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints reported that Atlanta has inquired about Chicago Bulls backup guard Jevon Carter.

Carter, a low-cost veteran option now in his seventh NBA season, signed a three-year, $19 million deal with Chicago in 2023. However, he is averaging just 6.9 minutes per game this season.

To land Carter, Atlanta might bundle fringe rotation players David Roddy, Garrison Matthews and Vit Krejci along with a second-round draft pick.

Clint Capela appears to be the Hawks’ most prominent trade asset, carrying the second-highest salary on the team. Now in his 11th NBA season, Capela is being outperformed by Onyeka Okongwu, a younger and more productive option at center who is six years his junior.

Jevon Carter shines versus Hawks

Atlantra's reported interest in Jevon Carter comes at an intriguing time, following the team’s close look at the Bulls guard during their matchup against Chicago on Thursday night. Atlanta edged out a narrow eight-point win in a high-scoring battle, but Carter stood out with a career performance.

Carter logged a season-high 36 minutes off the bench and was highly effective, finishing as Chicago’s second-leading scorer. He recorded 26 points, five assists and four rebounds, shooting 9-for-15 and making seven of his 11 3-point attempts.

Atlanta secured its second consecutive victory with the win over Chicago, improving to 16-15 on the season. Carter may draw more interest in the coming weeks, especially as injuries to Chicago’s backcourt have elevated his role.