The Atlanta Hawks continue to explore ways to elevate their roster, and the latest rumor suggests they haven't ruled out another significant addition.
According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, Atlanta is one of five teams "in the mix to varying degrees" for Trey Murphy III. Nothing appears imminent, but the report reinforces that President of Basketball Operations Onsi Saleh is still evaluating every opportunity to improve the roster.
The interest itself should not surprise anyone. Atlanta has spent the offseason addressing key needs while maintaining financial flexibility. The Hawks drafted their point guard of the future in Kingston Flemings, retained CJ McCollum, strengthened the bench with Aaron Wiggins, and recently re-signed Jock Landale to bolster the frontcourt.
Yet Atlanta still appears willing to explore opportunities if the right player becomes available.
Murphy certainly qualifies as that type of player. At just 26 years old, he aligns perfectly with Atlanta's competitive timeline while bringing a skill set that would immediately improve one of the league's ascending teams.
Murphy would elevate the Hawks on both ends
Murphy has quietly developed into one of the NBA's premier two-way wings. This past season, he averaged 21.5 points per game while shooting nearly 38 percent from three-point range on eight attempts per game. That combination of volume shooting and efficiency is difficult to find, particularly from a player who can also defend multiple positions.
His fit alongside Jalen Johnson would be especially intriguing. Murphy's perimeter shooting would create additional spacing for Johnson and rookie point guard Flemings, while his defensive versatility would fit seamlessly into Quin Snyder's switching schemes.
Atlanta also has reason to continue looking over its shoulder in the Eastern Conference. Rival contenders continue improving, with stars changing teams and playoff hopefuls becoming even stronger. If the Hawks believe they can realistically acquire a player of Murphy's caliber without sacrificing their long-term outlook, they should absolutely explore the possibility.
Reports dating back to draft night suggest Atlanta already attempted to do exactly that. According to Sam Amick of The Athletic, the Hawks discussed a framework with the New Orleans Pelicans involving the No. 8 overall pick in exchange for Murphy. Although those talks ultimately failed to produce a deal, they confirmed Atlanta's genuine interest.
Saleh still won't rush the process
Despite the appeal of adding Murphy, there are still moving pieces on Atlanta's roster. The Hawks continue evaluating the future of Jonathan Kuminga after declining his team option, while veteran Buddy Hield remains a name to monitor after the organization fully guaranteed his $9.66 million salary for next season and has continued exploring his trade market.
Those situations could directly influence any future negotiations. If Atlanta eventually pursues Murphy more aggressively, matching salaries and determining the appropriate trade package will become a major part of the conversation.
At the same time, the Hawks have shown no indication they intend to abandon the patient approach that has guided the front office throughout the offseason. Saleh has repeatedly emphasized making smart, calculated decisions that improve the team without compromising its long-term direction.
That philosophy makes perfect sense. Murphy would undoubtedly make Atlanta better, but not at any price. The Hawks have spent months building flexibility, accumulating assets, and strengthening the roster piece by piece. Sacrificing too much now would contradict everything they have accomplished.
The recent addition of Landale may have temporarily cooled speculation surrounding another immediate move, but it certainly doesn't eliminate the possibility altogether. Trade discussions around the league often evolve over time, especially as teams continue evaluating their rosters before training camp.
For now, Hawks fans should simply view Murphy as another name worth watching. Atlanta's reported interest is real, but the front office has earned the benefit of the doubt by remaining disciplined throughout the offseason.
If the asking price eventually aligns with Saleh's vision, don't be surprised if the Hawks make another call.
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