It's common knowledge, at this point, even in non-Hawks circles, that Atlanta needs to get rid of one more player before their season can begin.
Rival organizations should be watching closely, as whoever they get rid of could age as a hidden late-offseason gem. Atlanta sure hopes that's not the case, but at the very least, it proves to the incredible job they've done over the last year acquiring talent. Depth is important.
While the season is coming up, the Hawks shouldn't stress themselves about rushing towards a decision. It's an important one, no doubt, but they've got exactly a month to figure out a resolution. That should be more than enough time.
Atlanta must finalize their roster ahead of the NBA's opening night
The 2026-27 NBA season begins on October 20. Finally.
While the Hawks don't play until the night of the 21st in Orlando, there is a league-wide deadline for roster finalization they must abide by. 5 PM ET on October 19 is when all 30 teams must have their rosters complete.
They should give themselves a little bit of grace, too, and get everything finished without uncertainty a few days prior. It's always smart to be prepared for the worst case scenario - something Hawks fans unfortunately know good and well.
Looking at the potential candidates to be moved, they won't be super restricted in what they could do.
Their final decision doesn't have to be releasing a player. It could still very well be a trade. A deal sending two players for one, this late into an offseason, is unlikely, but a one-for-none is absolutely still in play.
Even in September, going into October, there are teams with available roster space. Limited cap room, but necessary roster space.
This could open the door for Atlanta to move Mo Gueye for second-round draft capital.
There won't be much of a trade market for the other candidates
While in a perfect world, Atlanta could move off of one of Corey Kispert or Buddy Hield for something of value, it'll be nearly impossible to execute this late into the summer.
The Hawks value Mo Gueye highly, but his untimely injury, combined with a loaded forward room, makes his presence expendable.
If no trade suitors arise, they would face little-to-no penalty in just waiving his $2 million deal for the upcoming season.
Atlanta has a very tough decision to make, but at least they have another month to weigh their options.
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