The Atlanta Hawks have been anything but quiet this January, continuing their roster shake-up with another intriguing move. After making headlines by trading Trae Young to the Wizards in exchange for CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert, the Hawks have now added some size and rim protection to their depth chart, signing 7-footer Christian Koloko to a two-way contract.
Koloko, a 2022 second-round pick originally selected 33rd overall by the Toronto Raptors, brings length, shot-blocking instincts, and a developing feel for the game. The Hawks announced the signing on Friday, marking Koloko’s fourth NBA team in as many seasons-a journey that’s seen him suit up for Toronto, the Lakers, Memphis, and now Atlanta.
This season, Koloko has logged 13 appearances between the Lakers and Grizzlies, including two starts. He’s averaged 2.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks in 15.5 minutes per game-modest numbers, but they hint at the kind of defensive presence he can provide when given a defined role.
Across his NBA career, Koloko has played in 108 games (21 starts), posting career averages of 2.8 points and 2.9 rebounds while shooting just over 50% from the field. He’s not going to stretch the floor or create offense on his own, but that’s not what Atlanta needs from him. His value lies in his rim protection, vertical athleticism, and ability to alter shots around the basket.
The challenge for Koloko has always been carving out consistent minutes. Offensively, he’s still a work in progress-limited touch, no real shooting range, and not much playmaking.
But defensively, there’s something to work with. He’s long, mobile for his size, and shows flashes of timing that could make him a useful piece in the right system.
Atlanta’s frontcourt rotation already features rising talent Jalen Johnson, and with McCollum now helping run the show, there’s a clearer structure for how this team wants to play. Koloko won’t be asked to do too much-just defend, rebound, and finish at the rim when the opportunity presents itself.
At 25 years old, Koloko still has time to find his footing in the league. The Hawks are betting that a low-risk, high-upside signing like this could pay off down the line. If he can stay healthy and embrace a role as a situational defender and energy big, there’s a path for him to stick.
It’s another move in what’s shaping up to be a transformative month for Atlanta. Whether Koloko becomes a long-term piece or just another stop in his NBA journey, the Hawks are clearly keeping their eyes on the future-and they’re not afraid to take swings on untapped potential.