An offseason can't come without tough decisions.
Atlanta, while certainly on a positive trajectory, has had their fair share of impossible choices to make. In order to improve, an organization can't get complacent. Not now.
Even after a fascinating summer of movement, the Hawks will have to move at least two more players before the 2026-27 season can begin. At 17 currently-rostered players, they'll soon be forced to say goodbye to some more.
Naturally, a 33-year-old veteran who didn't see much playing-time with the ball club last season will be listed as a cut or trade candidate. Other complications, however, could force the Hawks to point elsewhere. Maybe it'll be for the best.
Hield has an invaluable veteran presence - something this squad needs
Even after bringing in some veterans over the last year - most notably including CJ McCollum - it's important to remember that the Hawks are young. They entered last season as the third-youngest team in the entire NBA.
One of the biggest reasons they were unable to knock off the eventual-champion New York Knicks in the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs was their inexperience.
The only way to gain experience, though, is to gain experience.
Often meaning suffering plenty of defeat. Their first postseason exit as a group is out of the way, and now it's up to them to move forward and not forget how they felt upon elimination.
Buddy Hield has faced plenty of adversity through 10 NBA seasons. A fan-favorite and locker room glue-guy, keeping him around, even when he's set to make north of $9 million this upcoming season, could age particularly well. Especially if they have high postseason expectations.
If they spot an undeniable opportunity for improvement by February's trade deadline, he won't be untouchable, but going into the year with him on the roster isn't a terrible idea in the slightest.
If not Hield, someone (likely a young player) will have to go
That's the unfortunate reality of keeping Hield around.
They have to cut or trade two guys before the year can begin. It would be too easy to just rid of Corey Kispert and Hield's combined $22 million, but the league doesn't typically work in the favor of those who willingly bring in undesirable contracts.
Maybe it's Devin Carter. Maybe it's Mo Gueye. There's still two months until the beginning of the season, so Atlanta can take their time.
Regardless, it's not ridiculous to imagine Hield on the Hawks' roster this upcoming season, even with their impending departures.
Add us as a preferred source on Google