The Atlanta Hawks appeared to be in a good spot to leap in the standings, until LeBron James signed with the Philadelphia 76ers.
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While the Hawks could be done making two-way signings - as they're already full at three - they could always make some cuts and give some new looks.
The Atlanta Hawks unexpectedly have a golden opportunity to retain Jonathan Kuminga, instantly giving them one of the best second units in the NBA.
The Atlanta Hawks have several expiring contracts on the books that they could use to trade for a star, or get some assets from in general.
After acquiring Lu Dort from the Oklahoma CIty Thunder, it's clear the Hawks have improved this summer while not damaging their future.
The Atlanta Hawks likely won't change their starting five - even with the addition of Lu Dort - unless they move CJ McCollum midseason.
The Atlanta Hawks were already in a great financial situation, and it's looking even better now that they've traded Zaccharie Risacher for Lu Dort.
The Atlanta Hawks signed Jalen Wilson to a two-way contract for the 2026-27 season, adding another quality contributor to the back end of the roster.
The Atlanta Hawks appear unlikely to bring Jonathan Kuminga back after the Lu Dort trade, and so do the Los Angeles Lakers after pickups of their own.
The Atlanta Hawks have fully bought into their defense being their biggest asset - likely propelling them to the top of the Eastern Conference.
The Atlanta Hawks are now at 17 rostered players after their shocking trade for Lu Dort, making the need for more adjustments that much greater.
Opposing offenses are simply going to be unable to score on the Hawks' new defensive trio of Lu Dort, Dyson Daniels and Nickeil Alexander-Walker.
The Atlanta Hawks chose to sit their top guys after the first few games of summer league, and history shows they're making the right decision.
Atlanta Hawks forward Mouhamed Gueye is expected to miss some time, leaving the door wide open for Asa Newell to prove himself.
The Atlanta Hawks should sign Kobe Johnson to a two-way contract, as his play has been the biggest reason for their summer league success.
The Atlanta Hawks chose to sit their top guys against the Celtics, but still emerged victorious, giving them incentive to compete.
The Los Angeles Lakers, despite signing Ziare Williams, still would like to steal Jonathan Kuminga from the Atlanta Hawks.
Despite dominating last year's summer league, the Atlanta Hawks didn't get to compete for a title. Things are trending in the other direction this time around.
The Atlanta Hawks rookie has been facilitating like a mad man, instilling high confidence from fans and staff alike regarding his trajectory.
The Atlanta Hawks are rumored to be showing interest in Peyton Watson, and even if they don't land him, it proves they're still trying to get better.