Tristan Thompson was acquired by the Sacramento Kings from the Boston Celtics on Saturday as part of a three-team trade that also included the Atlanta Hawks.
Delon Wright, who was solid for the Kings in his 27 games, averaging 10 points 3.6 assists per game and helped solidify the Sacramento’s bench, was moved to Atlanta. Kris Dunn, Bruno Fernando, and a 2023 second-round draft pick were traded to Boston by the Hawks.
This deal makes sense for Sacramento from a roster balancing standpoint, as it clears some of the backcourt positional surplus following the selection of Davion Mitchell with the No. 9 pick.
From a talent standpoint, this move makes even less sense, as it appears that the Kings have traded their greatest player.
Last season, Thompson averaged 7.6 points and 8.1 rebounds in 54 games with Boston, including 43 starts.
Atlanta now has more depth in the backcourt, including behind starting point guard Trae Young.
“One of our priorities entering the offseason was to solidify the backup point guard spot,” Hawks general manager Travis Schlenk said.
“Delon is a consistent two-way guard who has been a part of several successful teams. We think he’s a great fit here,” added Schlenk.
On Friday, the Hawks re-signed veteran guard Lou Williams.
The Kings free playing time in the backcourt for first-round draft selection Davion Mitchell by dealing Wright.
Thompson has a career average of 9.3 points and 8.7 rebounds, including nine seasons in Cleveland.