The Atlanta Hawks are staring down a harsh reality: their 2026 first-round pick-the kind of asset that could define a franchise’s future-is currently in San Antonio’s hands, a lingering aftereffect of the 2022 Dejounte Murray trade. With the trade deadline creeping closer, Atlanta finds itself in a tough spot. They’re not just missing a valuable draft chip-they’re missing the chip, right before what many scouts believe could be one of the most talent-rich draft classes in years.
The 2026 NBA Draft is already generating buzz, and for good reason. The projected top five is loaded with potential franchise-changers-names like AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, and Cam Boozer are already being talked about as can’t-miss prospects.
Atlanta, as it stands, is in a position to land one of those blue-chip players. But what if they could do more than just hope the lottery balls bounce their way?
What if they could control their destiny?
That’s where things get interesting.
San Antonio, the current holder of Atlanta’s 2026 pick, is thriving in the Western Conference. They’re sitting in second place with a young, talented core-and now, the Giannis Antetokounmpo rumors are starting to pick up real steam.
With Giannis sidelined in Milwaukee for at least a month, the chatter about a potential blockbuster deal is growing louder. And if the Spurs do go all-in on a trade for the two-time MVP, Atlanta could sneak into the action-not as a buyer or a seller, but as a facilitator.
Here’s how it could work.
The Hawks as the third wheel with a purpose
Atlanta’s failed pursuit of Anthony Davis left them with something valuable: clean books next season. Both CJ McCollum and Kristaps Porzingis are on expiring contracts, which means the Hawks could step in as a cap-space buffer in a three-team deal involving the Bucks and Spurs.
In this scenario, San Antonio lands Giannis. That’s the headline.
Milwaukee, meanwhile, gets a treasure chest of assets from the Spurs-future first-rounders, young talent like Jeremy Sochan and Carter Bryant-and picks up the expiring contracts of Porzingis and McCollum from Atlanta. That gives the Bucks instant flexibility and the option to re-sign those veterans on team-friendly deals if the fit is right.
And the Hawks? They’d take on some long-term salary-namely, Devin Vassell from San Antonio and Kyle Kuzma from Milwaukee.
Vassell is locked in through 2029 at $27 million per year, while Kuzma’s $20 million deal runs through the end of next season. To make the salaries match, Kelly Olynyk would also head to Atlanta, though his contract expires this summer.
That’s a lot of money to absorb. But here’s the payoff: Atlanta gets its 2026 first-round pick back.
That changes everything.
Why the gamble makes sense for Atlanta
Sure, taking on Vassell and Kuzma limits Atlanta’s financial flexibility in the short term. But if the goal is to rebuild-really rebuild-this is the kind of move that could accelerate that process.
Getting their pick back means the Hawks could fully commit to a tank without watching the reward go to someone else. And if the basketball gods smile on them, they could walk into the 2026 Draft with two top-five picks-their own, and the Pelicans/Bucks pick they already control.
That’s how you reset a franchise.
Vassell, for what it’s worth, is more than just a contract. He’s a 3-and-D wing with upside, and still just 25 years old. Kuzma brings scoring and versatility, and while he may not be part of the long-term plan, he’s a useful piece in the short term-or a trade chip down the line.
This isn’t a move about winning now. It’s a move about positioning.
About giving yourself the best chance to land a star-or two. And in a draft class that’s being hyped as one of the best in recent memory, that kind of chance doesn’t come around often.
The Hawks can’t undo the 2022 trade. But they can pivot, get creative, and maybe-just maybe-turn a past mistake into a future win.