If Atlanta Hawks fans rewind the clock a calendar year, they would not be able to fathom that their premiere sixth man, Bogdan Bogdanović, had been traded to the LA Clippers.
Furthermore, Bogdanović was more than just a bench contributor last season; he was a fundamental part of Atlanta’s playoff aspirations. Their front office and fanbase hoped Bogdanović remained a Hawk until his last minute was played on the hardwood.
Conversely, Bogdanović’s eighth season in the NBA has been the complete opposite of what he’s previously experienced with the Hawks and Sacramento Kings. He struggles to make shots, leave an impact, and, more importantly, stay on the court.
These were all implications. Atlanta was going to trade him; they just needed a solid return.
Regardless of an off-season with the Hawks, Clipper fans fully expect Bogdanović to thrive in the best arena worldwide. He is in a lead position off the bench, and head coach Tyronn Lue needs his sharpshooter to stay healthy and help win games.
Moreover, as these responsibilities may be too much for Bogdanović, Hawks fans are laid back with their feet kicked up, waiting to see when Lue realizes he is not the same player he was before.
Atlanta realized the miles were adding up on Bogdanović and traded him to the LA Clippers before his value plummeted even more.
Although there is hope that Bogdan Bogdanović can score like he did last season, the LA Clippers could be living in a false reality. He is 32 years old and has injuries that prevent him from staying on the court.
Bogdanović has posted the worst numbers of his career this season, adding to why Atlanta had a quick change of heart from last season.
In 24 games, the eight-year veteran has posted 10.0 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.0 assists, shooting 37.1% from the field and 30.1% from beyond the arc. Additionally, Bogdanović would have to play in the Clippers’ remaining 30 games to reach 54, which would be a tie for the second-lowest of his career.
The Clippers may believe they won the trade with the Hawks, but Atlanta had seen numerous red flags surrounding Bogdanović, which worsened by the game.
If Bogdanović does not flip the script, the Clippers will be forced to hold on as teams will avoid his salary given his negative impact. The six-foot-five wing is under contract through 2026-27(team option).