The Atlanta Hawks checked off one major offseason objective by drafting their point guard of the future in Kingston Flemings.
Now, all signs point toward the frontcourt. According to Jake Fischer for The Stein Line, Atlanta is actively seeking to trade for a big man, confirming what many around the league have expected for quite some time. The Hawks addressed one need on draft night, but their work appears far from finished.
The report should not come as a surprise. Atlanta’s lack of size became increasingly evident during its playoff run, particularly in its postseason exit against the eventual champion New York Knicks. While Onyeka Okongwu continued to prove he is a quality starting center, the Hawks lacked another dependable frontcourt presence capable of matching bigger lineups.
Fischer also revealed that Atlanta previously explored the possibility of signing Isaiah Hartenstein to a five-year, $134 million contract before he ultimately re-signed with the Oklahoma City Thunder. While Fischer described that pursuit as a "long shot," it reinforced exactly how aggressively the Hawks have been searching for additional size.
That philosophy has not changed. If anything, the latest reporting suggests Atlanta has simply shifted its attention from free agency to the trade market.
Many names continue to make sense for the Hawks
One player who continues surfacing as a logical target is Daniel Gafford. The Hawks have reportedly expressed interest in Gafford dating back to January, and the latest reporting suggests Atlanta could once again explore that possibility.
Gafford would address several needs immediately. His rim protection, rebounding, athleticism, and ability to finish around the basket would provide valuable support behind Okongwu while giving head coach Quin Snyder another dependable option in the frontcourt.
The latest developments surrounding Buddy Hield could also be worth monitoring. Atlanta and Hield reportedly agreed to extend the guaranteed date on his $9.6 million contract until June 28. While that move does not necessarily signal an impending trade, it does preserve additional flexibility if the Hawks decide to include his salary in a larger package.
Atlanta also faces another important deadline involving Jonathan Kuminga. The organization must make a decision on his team option by June 29, another reminder that multiple roster decisions remain unresolved. The next several days could significantly shape the direction of the offseason.
Onsi Saleh will continue to keep his many options open
President of Basketball Operations Onsi Saleh has consistently emphasized the importance of improving the roster without compromising the organization’s long-term vision. Rather than locking the Hawks into one path, Saleh has repeatedly stressed maintaining flexibility while improving the roster. The latest report reflects that philosophy perfectly.
Adding another center remains one of the organization’s clearest priorities, but that does not mean Atlanta will force a move.
Earlier this week, I discussed why a player like Jalen Duren would be an intriguing fit if his situation in Detroit unexpectedly changed. However, with the Detroit Pistons reportedly committed to reaching a long-term agreement with Duren, that scenario appears unlikely at this point.
Likewise, if there was ever legitimate interest in Walker Kessler, the Hawks' reported pursuit of an established big man could suggest Atlanta is looking elsewhere. Whether that ultimately leads to Gafford or another veteran remains to be seen.
One thing, however, feels increasingly certain. The Hawks entered the offseason needing to address two major areas: point guard and center depth. They have already secured one by drafting Flemings. Finding another quality big man behind Okongwu now appears to be the organization’s next objective.
With Saleh continuing to explore every available option, Hawks fans should expect the front office to remain active. The roster is better today than it was a week ago, but if the latest reporting is any indication, Atlanta believes there is still another important move left to make.
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