Hawks Rising, But Likely To Listen To Calls On Some Veteran Players

The Atlanta Hawks are feeling good about their future, thanks to a promising young NBA quartet: Dyson Daniels, Jalen Johnson, Onyeka Okongwu, and 2024 No. 1 pick Zaccharie Risacher.

But despite the excitement surrounding these players, the Hawks aren’t ignoring the present.

They’re stuck once again in the play-in race, and if teams start calling about their veterans, ESPN sources said Atlanta will be all ears.

The team is flirting with the luxury tax this season, but there’s light at the end of the tunnel. Once Clint Capela‘s $22 million expiring contract is off the books, Atlanta will have more flexibility to work with, clearing the way for Okongwu to step into the starting center role.

One player teams are eyeing in particular is guard Bogdan Bogdanovic. The veteran scorer and shooter has a contract that’s relatively easy to move — $17.6 million this season, $16.2 million next year, with a team option for the following season. His experience could be valuable to any contender looking for depth on the wing.

Meanwhile, the Hawks are trying to get their chemistry in order, especially after some rough years between Trae Young and Dejounte Murray. The split of Murray to New Orleans in the offseason for a package including Daniels has opened up a new chapter, and Young seems more invested in fostering a positive environment.

ESPN reported that he’s working on his leadership skills, and while it’s still a work in progress, it’s paying off. Young, who leads the NBA in assists (12.2 per game), has been the driving force behind the Hawks’ recent surge, including their big win in New York that secured them a spot in Saturday’s NBA Cup semifinals.

If this momentum continues, the Hawks may have more than just young talent on their side.

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