Hawks Prioritize Okongwu,Explore Trade Options for Porzingis and Kennard
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Atlanta is navigating the NBA trade market with a clear focus: retaining key center Onyeka Okongwu while potentially shedding expiring contracts and leveraging financial versatility. Despite previous speculation linking forward Anthony Davis to the Hawks,attention has shifted to strategic roster adjustments as the trade deadline approaches.
The Hawks have demonstrated a firm stance against moving Okongwu, despite reported interest from the Indiana Pacers and other teams. League sources indicate Atlanta views the 25-year-old as a vital part of their future, particularly given his recent growth.
Okongwu’s Rising Value
Okongwu’s improved three-point shooting has significantly increased his value. He currently ranks among the league’s elite centers in terms of perimeter accuracy, joining nikola Jokic, Myles Turner, and Naz Reid as one of only four centers averaging over two three-pointers per game. His statistics are remarkable: 2.1 three-pointers made per game, alongside averages of 16.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.1 blocks when entering the starting lineup.
“He’s shown a growing all-around game,” a league source told HoopsHype. “His confidence from beyond the arc is a real weapon.”
Potential Outgoing players
Conversely, Kristaps Porzingis ($30.73 million) and Luke Kennard ($11 million) are being considered as potential trade candidates, largely due to their expiring contracts.This strategic positioning allows the hawks to potentially attract offers from teams seeking to create cap space.
Financial Maneuvering and Assets
The Hawks currently possess approximately $7 million in space under the luxury tax threshold and are reportedly willing to assist other teams in avoiding the tax in exchange for second-round draft picks. This proactive approach demonstrates a willingness to be a facilitator in the trade market.
Moreover, Atlanta retains a valuable asset in the form of a $13.1 million traded player exception acquired in the Bogdan Bogdanovic trade, providing additional flexibility to acquire players without immediately sending salary back.
However, the team also faces roster considerations. Center Happy Dante suffered a season-ending ACL tear and holds a non-guaranteed contract for the upcoming season, potentially making him a candidate for release to free up a roster spot should a trade materialize.
The Hawks’ strategy appears to be a calculated balance of retaining core talent, maximizing financial flexibility, and exploring opportunities to improve the roster through strategic trades.
