Capela is part of a four-team trade in 2015, where the Hawks essentially gave up nothing to receive him. The Hawks needed a defensive center that would protect the rim for them, and Clint Capela is him. Most fans berate Capela because he struggles to finish at the rim in some games or at the line. Despite Capela’s criticisms, he will always hold down the Hawks on the defensive end.

Defensive Anchor

Capela is the defensive anchor for the Hawks. Capela averages 1.7 blocks per game, which puts him ninth in the league in blocks. Capela does an excellent job in contesting shots at the rim. He has great timing, is excellent vertically, and is skilled enough not to commit a foul when contesting. Capela averages 1.9 fouls per game, which is low for a center contesting many shots at the rim. Last season, the Hawks had a defensive rating of 115.4 in games where Capela played. When Capela did not play, the Hawks had a defensive rating of 118.7. Without him, the Hawks’ defense is essentially non-existing, putting the Hawks dead last in the league for defensive rating.

A Monster on the Boards

Capela also excels in grabbing rebounds, especially defensive rebounds. Capela boxes out his man and is the guy to grab the rebound on the Hawks team, as he leads the team in rebounding. Capela is 14th in the league in total rebounds, with 102 rebounds, and averages 10.2 rebounds per game. Capela is not the most athletic center, but he is a high-IQ guy. He positions himself well for blocks, rebounds, and lobs. Capela is at the right place at the right time, allowing him to have monster 20-20 games.

Lob Threat

Capela is easily one of the best lob targets in the league. His chemistry with Young is unparalleled. Their timing is perfect, as they have played together with each other for only two years. Capela’s positioning is excellent, always lurking in the dunker’s spot, waiting for a drop-off, or rim running to the rim after a pick-n-roll play. His threat of always receiving a lob allows the Hawks’ guards, like Young and Murray, to attack the rim with floaters and midranges.

Team Fit Over Star Power

There have been numerous trade rumors surrounding Capela over the years. While trading for a superstar like Anthony Davis may make the Hawks instant title contenders, there will still be a grace period where the players get comfortable with each other. Capela is a starting-level center, and a few centers can effectively defend, rebound, and be a dangerous lob threat at his position. Currently, Capela is an excellent fit for this iteration of the Atlanta Hawks. His defensive presence at the rim covers the exterior defense, and his offensive presence allows the Hawks’ to relentlessly attack the paint.