Just as it appeared the Hawks wouldn't explore any more unexpected additions, they were listed as a potential suitor for one of the top free agents remaining on the board.
They already weren't simply "running it back", contrary to popular belief despite several adjustments near the back-end of the rotation; they've been careful with how they've navigated a pivotal offseason.
If the right move is there, and if it's truly worth it, Onsi Saleh will strike. Maybe, they'll have a chance to do so with Peyton Watson - Denver's breakout forward of the 2025-26 season who has been rumored to be finding a new home for quite some time now.
Hawks have emerged as a Watson suitor, signaling new aggressiveness
According to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, the Hawks have "shown some fresh interest in Watson, which would likewise require a sign-and-trade," immediately separating them as his most intriguing potential landing spot.
It's true, though, that they wouldn't be able to just sign him outright. It would have to come in the form of a sign-and-trade. Atlanta has a very limited amount of cap space remaining after a series of new deals, and Watson is likely to command a solid payday on the open market.
Similar to the Lakers' pursuit of Hawks' free agent Jonathan Kuminga, Atlanta wouldn't have the necessary money to offer him a deal straight up.
The biggest issue, likely limiting the mutual interest, is the price - but not that of his expected contract. It's what the Nuggets would want in return in a potential sign-and-trade. Los Angeles ruined that market by overpaying for Walker Kessler, and now Denver would likely demand a similar return.
If there's anything Saleh has proved in his short tenure as Atlanta's lead decision-maker, it's that he won't trade significant future draft capital for an immediate fix. They should tread lightly, and they will.
If a deal doesn't get done, at least the Hawks are doing their due diligence
The lack of complacency is what really sticks out regarding their rumored interest in Peyton Watson. Of course, he would make an intriguing long-term addition, as his two-way upside would absolutely benefit the ceiling of the intact core, but the most likely scenario is that they don't bring him in.
The Hawks clearly want to improve their roster heading into the 2026-27 season. Whether that's by adding Watson, someone else or just heading into the year with the current roster - the organization clearly wants to compete.
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