Atlanta Hawks Reshape Roster to Chase Contention

The Atlanta Hawks have signaled serious contention intentions this offseason following another disappointing season where they finished 40-42 and missed the playoffs despite a promising NBA Cup run to the semi-finals, which included a key win over the New York Knicks. Their season derailed after Jalen Johnson suffered a season-ending shoulder injury.

In response, the Hawks made significant front office changes, promoting Onsi Saleh to general manager on April 21, 2025, after firing Landry Fields. Saleh was tasked with steering the team through Eastern Conference uncertainty and decided to push for contention immediately.

Saleh's first major move was acquiring All-Star center Kristaps Porziņģis from the Boston Celtics via a three-team trade involving the Brooklyn Nets. The deal sends Porziņģis and a second-round pick to Atlanta, Terance Mann and the Hawks' No. 22 pick to Brooklyn, and Georges Niang plus a second-rounder to Boston.

Porziņģis is expected to drastically improve Atlanta's offensive spacing as an elite shooting big man, opening driving lanes for Trae Young and Jalen Johnson while providing Young with a top-tier pick-and-roll partner. Defensively, his 7-foot-2 frame adds rim protection and perimeter switching versatility. As a former NBA champion, he also brings valuable leadership and mentorship for Atlanta's young core, elevating both their immediate competitiveness and long-term development.