3 Hawks who should be untouchable in trade talks this summer

The Atlanta Hawks are entering a pivotal offseason, where it's never been clearer that they need to make some adjustments around the margins. Plenty of weaknesses were exposed during their first-round battle with the New York Knicks, and now it's time for the organization to make the necessary corrections in their pursuit of contention.

Still, they need to remember they've got an incredible young core, and there are several key guys it would be foolish to part with. Untouchables. It's often difficult to determine who's truly off the block after an underwhelming first-round exit, but that's not the case for the Atlanta Hawks.

They need to stay the course with three of their most impactful contributors.

3. Nickeil Alexander-Walker

NAW is a player who entered last season with uncertainty in his role. He was a crucial piece towards Minnesota's second unit a season prior, but was immediately tasked with a much larger role upon touching down in Atlanta.

He made the most of it, and more, in his first season with the Hawks. Averaging a career-high 20.7 points per game, Alexander-Walker deservingly took home Most Improved Player for the 2025-26 season.

It would make little sense to sell high on a player like him after the season he had. He's on one of the best contracts in the NBA, and is likely to be a major part of the Hawks' core for at least the next several years.

2. Dyson Daniels

Speaking of taking home Most Improved Player, Daniels won it in his first season with the Hawks, and even though his offensive consistency took a hit in his second campaign with the organization, he still remains one of their most impactful two-way weapons.

He's always tasked with defending the opposing team's best player, and for the most part, he does a spectacular job. If they were to shockingly move Daniels, it would take a world of defensive adjustments to make up for his presence.

Daniels also initiates much of their nightly offense, and has quickly become one of the league's most underrated playmakers.

1. Jalen Johnson

Of course, Johnson won't be moved for any reason this summer. A disappointing postseason is clouding just how impressive his true breakout campaign was. Johnson receiving All-Star and All-NBA recognition in his first year as a top option shouldn't go overlooked.

The Hawks are in great hands with Johnson leading them into this new era, and all he can do about his underwhelming playoff performance is learn from it. There's no reason to believe he won't.

It's fun to speculate about a franchise-altering blockbuster transaction, but no matter what, the Atlanta Hawks need to hold on to Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Dyson Daniels and of course - Jalen Johnson.

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