The Golden State Warriors dealt with their troubled backcourt situation Wednesday by agreeing to deal guard Jamal Crawford to the Atlanta Hawks for guards Acie Law and Speedy Claxton, according to a league source.

The move solidifies the Hawks at a position where Atlanta had a potential problem this coming offseason, with incumbent Mike Bibby entering free agency.

The Hawks were leery about being able to re-sign Bibby this summer, expecting him to get an offer in excess of $7 million per year-more than they’re willing to pay. Bringing in Crawford alleviates that potential problem.

Crawford can give the Hawks consistent backcourt offense, which will ease pressure on Joe Johnson.

The trade was first reported by ESPN.

Crawford, acquired from the Knicks last season in the Al Harrington deal, quickly fell out of favor with Warriors Coach Don Nelson. By the end of the season, Nelson demanded that Crawford exercise his out clause in his contract and become a free agent, or expect to be traded.

Crawford didn’t mind being traded, as long as it was to a winning team.

Law, the 12th pick overall in 2007, never broke into Mike Woodson’s rotation in two seasons in Atlanta.

The Warriors are expected to waive Claxton, who has been slowed by injuries in recent years.

(nba.com)

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