NBA Trades: 5 Zion Williamson destinations this summer

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - SEPTEMBER 27: Zion Williamson #1 of the New Orleans Pelicans speaks to members of the media during Media Day at Smoothie King Center on September 27, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - SEPTEMBER 27: Zion Williamson #1 of the New Orleans Pelicans speaks to members of the media during Media Day at Smoothie King Center on September 27, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) /
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NBA Trades: 5 Zion Williamson destinations this summer
ATLANTA, GA – APRIL 06: Trae Young #11 of the Atlanta Hawks battles Zion Williamson #1 of the New Orleans Pelicans during the first half at State Farm Arena on April 6, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia, NBA Trades: 5 Zion Williamson destinations this summer. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images) /

Despite the All-Star festivities, including Stephen Curry’s 50-point game and LeBron James’ game-winner, the talk of the town has been a player who hasn’t even stepped foot on a court this season – Zion Williamson.

During an interview with the NBA on TNT crew, CJ McCollum revealed that he has not spoken with Williamson since joining the New Orleans Pelicans. While a report came out today saying that the two have spoken since that’s still concerning information to hear.

Combine that with a report from Sports Illustrated’s Howard Beck saying that GMs around the league are preparing for the possibility of him requesting a trade, and New Orleans is at the center of a ton of drama.

So, if that reality does come to fruition, what teams should be chasing Zion Williamson this summer? There are obvious risks, but the upside of a top-ten caliber talent is there as well.

NBA Trades: 5 Zion Williamson destinations this summer – Atlanta Hawks

After an impressive Eastern Conference Finals run last year, the Atlanta Hawks find themselves in an ugly spot this year. Taking a chance on a Zion Williamson would be great for them.

On paper, the pairing of Trae Young and Williamson would be one of the most exciting in the league. The alley-oops alone would warrant them being one of the most televised teams in the country.

Star power runs the NBA nowadays, and when it comes to young talent, you won’t find much more star power than Williamson and Young, even with injuries being accounted for.

Atlanta has the assets to make a deal happen if Williamson were to request a trade. So, since they have already struggled mightily this year, why not shake things up?