Soaring Down South
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Examining the Atlanta Hawks free agency transactions

By Daniel Hughes

Apr 18, 2021; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) (left) reacts with forward John Collins (20) before the game against the Indiana Pacers at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 18, 2021; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) (left) reacts with forward John Collins (20) before the game against the Indiana Pacers at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /
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Atlanta Hawks
Atlanta Hawks. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-USA TODAY Sports /

The Atlanta Hawks offseason guard moves and the draft

In the guard position, the highlight was securing Trae Young to a max extension. It was announced in a press conference the deal was five-year, $207 million which also includes bonuses. This cemented the All-Star as the face of the franchise for years to come as the team looks to continue to build on the culture implemented from within the Hawks organization.

Lou Williams was also bought back, less than a year from contemplating his retirement upon the announcement he had been traded to the Hawks from the LA Clippers. The front office has convinced Lemon Pepper Lou that the foundations in place are worth sticking around for. This also speaks volumes to the work going on behind the scenes.

Finally, the Hawks managed to work a deal to bring in talented sharp-shooter, Delon Wright. This is a fantastic move that brings more depth and talent. The six-year pro is a strong two-way guard who is coming off a career-high 10.2 points per game while playing for the Detroit Pistons and the Sacramento Kings.

Atlanta has also continued their recent draft success, with Sharife Cooper and Jalen Johnson the next of what is becoming a long line of great picks. Cooper has signed a two-way contract while Johnson may struggle to get minutes. Both will have plenty of opportunities to shine as McMillan has shown his willingness to give young players their chance.

Hopefully, Cooper and Johnson can make the most of these moments like Onyeka Okongwu last season where he worked his way to becoming an invaluable member of the squad in the postseason.