The Atlanta Hawks are unlikely to make a star trade this season. Jake Fischer has repeatedly reported that they clearly do not plan on paying the price for Giannis Antetokounmpo or Anthony Davis. Fischer first revealed that the Hawks have “zero intention” of trading the legendary 2026 NOP/MIL pick swap, effectively ruling out a Giannis trade. On Wednesday, Fischer reported that the Hawks see Davis merely as a buy-low option, again ruling out the franchise.
The Hawks are instead opting to remain flexible heading into the potentially tumultuous 2026 offseason. Trae Young could opt out of his contract – although it remains unclear if that is a wise move for Young – and Kristaps Porzingis is on an expiring $30 million deal. If the Hawks cannot reach an extension with either player, the logical choice is to trade them to recover some value.
The Hawks are building for the future
Young’s perceived value across the league is at an all-time low. Barring miraculous improvement, there will be few, if any, suitors willing to match his $49 million player option. If Young feels he is getting low-balled, there is a good chance he’ll want another shot to prove his worth without injuries to both him and Porzingis. After all, Young has never suffered from a lack of confidence. Perhaps the process of having to pick up his option and prove his value could unlock his fullest self.
Porzingis can still be traded for Davis, but the Hawks would have to send Dallas a haul of picks and/or young players that Atlanta is clearly not willing to part with. I wouldn’t be surprised if Porzingis were traded, though it’s time to temper our expectations from Davis to a more realistic option.
There are still tempting options on the market worth considering. Myles Turner could be available if Giannis is traded and would be as close to a 1:1 fit for Porzingis you can find. Nic Claxton is a traditional rim-running center, but his presence would help improve the Hawks’ shaky interior presence. Michael Porter Jr. would be an exciting offensive addition, though I would only execute the trade if he agrees to stop speaking on podcasts.
However, if the Hawks aren’t willing to spend for the franchise-changing stars, I don’t expect them to offer the best trade package for any of these three players.
Instead, I expect a calm trade season from the Hawks. They’ll take stock this offseason after receiving the 2026 Pelicans pick and move forward accordingly.