Kristaps Porzingis’ Expiring Deal Could Be Key to Hawks’ Trade Deadline Ambitions
As the NBA trade deadline creeps closer, the Atlanta Hawks find themselves in a familiar spot: stuck in the middle and looking for a spark. One name that continues to surface in league conversations is Kristaps Porzingis - not necessarily because of his on-court production, but because of his $30.7 million expiring contract. That kind of financial flexibility is gold this time of year, and Atlanta may be ready to cash it in.
According to league insiders, the Hawks are expected to explore the trade market using Porzingis’ deal as a key asset. The logic is simple: if a meaningful upgrade becomes available, Porzingis’ contract could be the ticket to landing a player who better fits Atlanta’s long-term vision or gives them a real shot at making noise in the East right now.
Let’s break down five potential targets who could be on Atlanta’s radar - names that range from realistic to ambitious, but all intriguing in their own right.
1. Jonathan Kuminga - A High-Upside Fit for Atlanta's Timeline
If the Hawks are looking to align their roster around youth, athleticism, and long-term potential, Jonathan Kuminga makes a lot of sense. The 21-year-old forward has shown flashes of star-level talent in Golden State, but his role has been inconsistent - including multiple benchings this season.
A change of scenery could unlock Kuminga’s full potential, and Atlanta could be just the place. He’d bring much-needed self-creation and defensive versatility, two areas the Hawks could use more of, especially in the frontcourt.
Kuminga’s skill set complements the direction Atlanta seems to be heading with players like Jalen Johnson and AJ Griffin. This wouldn’t just be a move for now - it would be a bet on the future.
2. Domantas Sabonis - A Proven All-Star to Anchor the Paint
If the Hawks want to go big - literally and figuratively - Domantas Sabonis would be a home-run swing. The Sacramento Kings’ big man is a two-time All-Star who brings elite rebounding, interior scoring, and playmaking from the post.
Pairing Sabonis with Trae Young would create one of the most dynamic pick-and-roll duos in the East. Add in Jalen Johnson’s growth and you’ve got a frontcourt trio with real firepower.
Sabonis would also give Atlanta a legitimate presence inside, something they’ve lacked at times this season. It’s a bold move, but one that could fast-track the Hawks back into the upper tier of the conference.
3. Nic Claxton - Defensive Identity Meets Long-Term Fit
Nic Claxton might not have the All-Star shine of some other names on this list, but his value is undeniable - especially for a team looking to build a defensive foundation. The Brooklyn Nets big man has become one of the league’s premier rim protectors and switchable defenders.
Swapping Porzingis for Claxton would give Atlanta a younger, more mobile center to pair with Onyeka Okongwu in what could be a fearsome defensive frontcourt. Claxton’s ability to guard multiple positions and anchor a defense would allow the Hawks to maintain - and possibly elevate - their identity on that end of the floor. It’s not the flashiest move, but it might be one of the smartest.
4. Lauri Markkanen - A Win-Now Weapon with All-Star Upside
If Atlanta wants to stay competitive without sacrificing versatility, Lauri Markkanen could be the perfect target. The former All-Star has emerged as one of the league’s most efficient and dynamic scoring forwards, and he’d slot in seamlessly next to Jalen Johnson.
Markkanen brings more offensive variety than Porzingis - he can stretch the floor, attack off the dribble, and hold his own defensively. His ability to play both forward spots gives the Hawks lineup flexibility, and his presence would ease the scoring load on Trae Young. The Utah Jazz have been reluctant to move him, but Porzingis’ expiring deal could be the kind of leverage Atlanta needs to get Utah talking.
5. Giannis Antetokounmpo - The Dream Scenario
Let’s be clear: landing Giannis Antetokounmpo is a long shot. But if you're the Hawks, you have to try.
If there’s even a whisper of availability, you pick up the phone. Giannis is a franchise-changing force - a two-time MVP, NBA champion, and one of the most dominant two-way players in the game.
Porzingis’ contract alone wouldn’t be enough to get a deal done, but it could be a starting point in a larger package. Adding Giannis would instantly vault Atlanta into championship contention.
It’s a reach, no doubt. But in the NBA, bold moves are often the ones that matter most.
What’s Next for Atlanta?
The Hawks are at a crossroads. With a roster that’s talented but inconsistent, and a star point guard in Trae Young who’s hungry to win now, Atlanta can’t afford to stand pat. Porzingis’ expiring deal gives them flexibility - and in the NBA, flexibility is power.
Whether they go for a rising star like Kuminga, a proven commodity like Sabonis or Markkanen, or even swing for the fences with a Giannis pursuit, the Hawks have options. The question is: how aggressive are they willing to be?
The clock’s ticking. And in Atlanta, the front office knows this deadline could define the next chapter of their franchise.