Atlanta Hawks general manager Onsi Saleh has made quite the impression during his first few months in office, but his recent contract negotiation with Dyson Daniels is undoubtedly his best move thus far. Saleh signed the generational defender to a four-year $100 million contract extension, securing Daniels for the distant future.
According to HOOPSHYPE.com Senior NBA Insider, Mike A. Scotto, Daniels’ agent, Daniel Moldovan, was seeking $150 million, similar to Jalen Suggs' contract with the Orlando Magic.
They settled for an average annual payment of $25 million from 2026-2030, which is elite value for the 2025 Most Improved Player.
Dyson’s willingness to settle for $50 million less showcases his dedication to the Hawks, and now they’re able to focus on a highly anticipated season in Atlanta. The 22-year-old is expected to take an even bigger leap this season, and according to FanDuel, he is the sixth-highest betting favorite (+2200) to win Defensive Player Of The Year.
It’s clear that he will continue to improve as a defender because of his work ethic and unique skill set. The biggest question mark surrounding Daniels is what he will be like at the peak of his abilities. Hawks fans will be fortunate to get a glimpse of his prime when he turns 26, but many pundits are interested in his ultimate ceiling in Atlanta.
Can Dyson Daniels Become An All-Star In Atlanta?
The biggest critique of his game prior to his Hawks tenure was his three point shooting, and he displayed tremendous growth this season. Playing alongside Trae Young has certainly had a positive effect on him offensively.
In an offseason interview with ClutchPoints, Daniels discussed the backcourt dynamic between Young and himself.
“I wouldn't say I've showcased everything I've got [yet],” Daniels told Tormer Azarly of ClutchPoints. “I think I've got so much more in me to improve on, but the defensive side of the game, it was something I've always had."
Young led the league in assists (11.6) while Daniels led the league in steals (3.0). Offensively, Dyson flourished, increasing his points from 5.8 to 14.1 per game.
"He made my life a lot easier, and our games kind of really complement each other. Him on the offensive end, me on the defensive end, helping him out," Daniels continued, "I wasn't happy with how my two years went in New Orleans, so I was happy with how this year went, but I feel like I could win Most Improved Player again. It'll be another goal of mine going into the year.”
It’s the perfect balance, and now they’re united for the future. The next logical step is for Daniels to become an All-Star, and it will certainly happen if his offense takes another leap.
He will be one of the best two-way players in the entire league and a co-star on an Eastern Conference contender. It’ll give the Hawks a young star trio in Daniels, Young, and star Power Forward Jalen Johnson. Once the front office signs Young to his veteran extension, all three stars will be under contract for years to come, securing a very bright future in Atlanta.