Atlanta Hawks Off-Season Moves
During the off-season, the Atlanta Hawks showcased a determined approach to enhancing their roster. The team successfully acquired Kristaps Porzingis, known for his shot blocking prowess, which was viewed as a crucial addition. Additionally, Atlanta executed a sign-and-trade deal to bring in Nickeil Alexander-Walker to bolster their shooting ability and defensive capabilities on the perimeter. The acquisition of Luke Kennard further adds depth to the team’s shooting options.
On top of these new faces, the Hawks are optimistic about the return of a healthy Jalen Johnson and hope for a breakout season from Zaccharie Risacher in his sophomore year, positioning Atlanta as a potential contender for a top-four seed in the Eastern Conference.
Contract Situation with Trae Young
However, in stark contrast to their proactive roster moves, the Hawks have been notably quiet when it comes to extending Trae Young‘s contract. Despite any personal frustrations Young may have, sources indicate that both the franchise and the player are preparing for him to complete the upcoming season under his existing deal, postponing any discussions about a long-term extension until next summer. Jake Fischer of The Stein Line reported,
“There are no plans for Young and the Hawks to have extension talks this summer.”
Young, who is in the midst of a contract valued at over $200 million, appears to have accepted the likelihood of playing out the final guaranteed year of his agreement, after which he will have a decision to make regarding a $49 million player option for the 2026-27 season.
Future Considerations
It’s important to note that neither Young nor the Hawks are exploring a split. The organization is focused on assessing how their revamped roster performs together this season before making any significant financial commitments. Young is not expected to be traded, and it seems that both parties are keen to evaluate the potential of this new lineup, particularly with Porzingis set to become a free agent and Young potentially opting out of his contract next summer.
A significant point of consideration for Atlanta is the unprotected first-round pick they possess from the New Orleans Pelicans, a result of the latter trading up in the recent draft. Should the Pelicans underperform this season—a plausible outcome—this pick could become quite valuable in what is anticipated to be a deep draft, prompting the Hawks to rethink their strategic direction.
Opportunities for Trae Young
For Young, the current situation presents an opportunity to showcase his talent. By leading the Hawks to a successful season and deep playoff run, he could significantly enhance his worth in future negotiations, an aspect that requires careful contemplation given the looming possibility of his departure in free agency. As it stands, the likelihood that Young will join his peers, like Luka Doncic and De’Aaron Fox, who secured contract extensions this summer, seems increasingly dim.
