5 Hawks who won’t be on the roster beyond the trade deadline
By Tyler Watts
The Atlanta Hawks hope to recreate their 2021 success. They were in the conference finals three years ago, but back-to-back first-round exits have the franchise searching for answers and ready to make significant changes. Trae Young popped up in trade rumors this summer, and all bets are off if the Hawks struggle this season.
After years of rumors, John Collins was finally dealt this summer. The Hawks’ new front office led by Landry Fields is ready to make moves and has multiple roster concerns to sort. They have interest in Pascal Siakam and could trade pieces for a star at any moment.
Expect Atlanta to be active and aggressive before the trade deadline no matter their situation. They will likely shake up their roster and try to find the pieces to contend around Trae Young and Dejounte Murray, which means current Hawks will find new homes.
Atlanta Hawks who won’t be on the roster beyond the trade deadline
5. Onyeka Okongwu
This one seems unlikely, but crazier things have happened. The 23-year-old continues to improve but is stuck behind Clint Capela. Atlanta must decide who to prioritize moving forward. Okongwu is extension-eligible and becomes a restricted free agent in the summer of 2024. The Hawks need to lock him up long-term, but that likely means offering a larger role.
The front office should explore the market if Okongwu is unhappy in Atlanta and wants to move on. He is ready to prove what he can do in a starting role. If the Hawks cannot offer one, a breakup could be best for both sides.
The Atlanta Hawks can match any offer he receives next summer, so they hold the power. How does the franchise handle it? Do not be shocked to see Okongwu in rumors and potentially traded before the deadline.