Hawks’ Front Office Faces Crucial Decisions as Trae Young Nears Return
As the Atlanta Hawks navigate a season filled with injuries, question marks, and long-term roster decisions, the spotlight is once again turning toward their franchise point guard. Rival executives around the league believe Trae Young may be trending toward exercising his $49 million player option for the 2026-27 season - a move that would delay his potential entry into unrestricted free agency for at least another year.
Young technically holds the cards here. He can decline that option next summer and hit the open market, or he could sign a long-term extension with Atlanta at any point before then. But so far, the Hawks haven’t initiated any extension talks, and Young’s season has been hampered by a knee injury that’s limited him to just five appearances.
That could be about to change. Young is reportedly close to returning to the floor, and the Hawks are eager to see how he meshes with the current roster.
It’s not just about getting their star back - it’s about evaluating what this team looks like at full strength. A strong second half from Young could shift the calculus entirely, possibly putting him in position to test free agency from a place of leverage next summer.
Porzingis on the Market? Hawks Weighing Options
Kristaps Porzingis’ name has surfaced in trade discussions, and while he’s battled his own health issues this season, his expiring $30.7 million contract gives him real value on the market. Atlanta is expected to explore what kind of return they could get for Porzingis, potentially using him as a piece to upgrade the roster - though nothing appears imminent.
One name that's reportedly caught the Hawks’ attention: Anthony Davis. While the interest is described as “exploratory,” it gives you a sense of the kind of swing Atlanta might be willing to take if the right opportunity presents itself. But unless a blockbuster materializes, the Hawks appear comfortable riding out the season with their current group, especially with a high draft pick likely coming in June.
Draft Strategy Remains Focused on the Future
Atlanta’s front office is keeping a close hold on its 2026 first-round pick - a valuable asset that will come from whichever team finishes worse between the Pelicans and Bucks. According to league sources, the Hawks have no serious intention of moving that pick right now, reinforcing the idea that the team is still focused on building through the draft and developing its young core.
That patient approach could prove wise. With several promising young pieces already in place, the Hawks aren’t in a position where they need to force a win-now move unless the right deal falls into their lap. This season may ultimately be more about evaluation than contention.
Former Executive Pleads Guilty in Embezzlement Case
Off the court, the franchise is dealing with a legal matter involving a former executive. Lester Jones, who previously served as the team’s senior vice president of financial planning and analysis, pleaded guilty this week to a federal wire fraud charge. Prosecutors allege that Jones embezzled $3.8 million from the organization, falsifying financial documents and fabricating emails in an attempt to cover his tracks.
Jones is scheduled to be sentenced in March, and while the incident is a black eye for the franchise, it appears the legal process is moving toward resolution.
Looking Ahead
As the calendar turns and Trae Young returns to action, the next few months will be critical for the Hawks. Between potential trade scenarios, looming contract decisions, and a high draft pick in play, Atlanta’s front office is juggling short-term evaluations with long-term vision. Whether they stay the course or make a splash, one thing’s clear - the decisions made this season could shape the franchise for years to come.