It's starting to reach peak rumor season, and luckily for the Hawks, most of them likely aren't anything more than that.
While the Hawks certainly could get involved in the Jaylen Brown sweepstakes, they would only do so if they could acquire him for less than his expected value. It's the way Onsi Saleh operates, and he won't suddenly alter his philosophy in a summer as pivotal as this one.
Acquiring Brown for less than most expect would mean keeping the core intact. Whether fans approve of it or not, Onyeka Okongwu is part of that core. A crucial piece to it, at that.
Many have mentioned Okongwu as an interest to Boston in helping facilitate a potential Brown deal, but it's clear that Atlanta values him tremendously, as they do for most of the core they've watched blossom in real-time.
Atlanta wouldn't move OO unless there's a clear upgrade at center
Even then, on a contract as minimal as his, he'd be incredibly valuable to keep as one of the league's most reliable backups. He's earned his starting job, though, and sending him back to the second unit wouldn't be the most wise decision in relation to his development.
He's improved in every season he's been in a Hawks uniform, and there's no reason he won't up his production once more next year. With that, there's little reason to believe they'd be so willing to dangle his name in trade talks - for anyone, really.
Especially not someone who wouldn't fix their biggest interior needs. If he was moved to Boston in exchange for a player like Brown, it would likely improve Atlanta's immediate ceiling, but there would be valid doubts regarding their sustainability.
They're building something special for the long-run, and getting short-sighted and dealing Okongwu now would likely backfire.
His contract is one of the biggest reasons they'll hold on to him
A young center on an impressive trajectory, who's also an undeniably-successful developmental story for the franchise, isn't someone they should be willing to let go. The incentive of keeping him gets even greater with a quick look at the finances.
He's set to make less than $17 million annually for the next two seasons. For a guy who just averaged over 15 points, seven rebounds and three assists per game on quality efficiency, that's an absolute bargain in today's NBA.
The Hawks will always value team-friendly contracts, and Okongwu's is one of them, without a doubt. It helps that he's also one of the team's most effective offensive weapons.
Onyeka Okongwu is more than likely here to stay, so while Boston can have interest in him, Atlanta has no reason to engage if his name gets brought up.
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