NBA trade rumors are growing for the Atlanta Hawks as the International Business Times reported on Jan. 17 that Josh Smith might be on the market after a recent outburst and one-game suspension.
The 28-year old forward sees his contract expire at the end of this season, and with Atlanta plummeting in the rankings, they might want to see what they can get for the future in exchange for the talented defensive star.
The Hawks have lost seven of their last 10 games, and while they are still a playoff contender, Smith is growing disenfranchised quickly. In his ninth season in Atlanta, Smith is leading the team in scoring (16.5) and blocked shots (2.3), while also pulling down 8.3 rebounds, dishing out 3.7 assists and nabbing 1.3 steals a game in 35 starts.
Smith's outburst after the 97-58 loss to Chicago cost him a one-game suspension and an undisclosed fine. Smith serves the suspension in the teams Jan. 18 game with the Brooklyn Nets. For his part, Smith was apologetic about the suspension, although he did mention the team's recent losses.
"Clearly I am competitive and was frustrated by our recent losses," Smith said in a statement. "I understand and respect the team's actions and just want to get back on the court to do whatever is necessary to help my teammates. I apologize for letting them down and apologize to our fans for not being available for tonight's game."
There are a number of teams who could use Smith's scoring and defensive presence. The Dallas Mavericks could use a big man and has plenty of cap space, the Memphis Grizzlies have made it clear they would like to move Rudy Gay, and the Houston Rockets could use the big man to shore up their improved roster.
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