Trae Young’s contract extension with the Hawks remains unresolved as Atlanta weighs immediate competitiveness over long‑term commitment. Young is eligible for a four‑year, $229 million deal, but the Hawks haven’t opened extension talks, a stance that hints at a cautious, roster‑driven approach to 2025‑26. The decision could influence Young’s fantasy value this season, as role clarity and surrounding talent are paramount.

Atlanta’s offseason additions—Nickeil Alexander‑Walker, Luke Kennard and Kristaps Porzingis—provide scoring punch and floor spacing that complements Young’s pass‑first style. Insider commentary echoed the pace of the process: the Hawks want to see how the revamped group performs before locking in a long‑term plan. With new pieces, Young could push for a career‑high in efficiency and assists, but the contract suspense tempers expectations and pricing in fantasy leagues.

Two straight playoff misses have the Hawks intent on a quick rebound, making 2025‑26 a prove‑it year for roster fit. If the lineup gels, Young’s fantasy ceiling could rise as options around him demand more defensive attention, potentially elevating both his scoring and assist totals. Yet until a deal is reached, price points may remain subdued, creating both risk and opportunity for savvy managers.

The Atlanta Hawks are making strong moves this offseason to support their star Trae Young, who has missed the playoffs for two consecutive years. The team has acquired notable players including Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Luke Kennard, and Kristaps Porzingis. Along with a promising young core featuring Zaccharie Risacher, Jalen Johnson, and Dyson Daniels, the Hawks aim to reclaim competitiveness in the upcoming 2025-26 season.

However, uncertainty looms over Young's potential contract extension worth $222 million for four years. NBA insider Bobby Marks expressed skepticism about granting Young a maximum deal, suggesting that the Hawks should first assess their roster's performance before committing such a significant amount. He noted that while Young is an All-Star, his rank among the NBA elite requires further evaluation, especially with other extensions, such as Daniels, also on the horizon.

The Atlanta Hawks are making significant moves to bolster their roster, acquiring Nickeil Alexander-Walker from the Minnesota Timberwolves for four years and $62 million. This sign-and-trade deal also includes sending a second-round pick and cash to Minnesota. Additionally, the Hawks have secured sharpshooter Luke Kennard on a one-year, $11 million contract. Kennard, known for his outstanding shooting skills, notably shot 43.3% from beyond the arc last season. Star player Trae Young actively recruited both players, signaling the Hawks' commitment to enhancing their competitive edge.

Alexander-Walker, who had a breakout season with Minnesota, brings defensive prowess and playmaking ability to Atlanta, having recorded career highs in several categories last season. His perimeter defense and ability to shoot from 3-point range make him a valuable addition. Kennard's shooting excellence further complements the team's offensive strategy. These acquisitions could significantly impact the Hawks' performance in the upcoming NBA season.

The Atlanta Hawks made significant moves at the start of NBA free agency, notably signing guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker to a four-year, $62 million contract. A standout during the 2024-25 season with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Alexander-Walker showcased his skills as a versatile 3-and-D player alongside Anthony Edwards. This addition reflects the Hawks' strategy to blend youth with experience, aiming for a playoff return after missing the postseason for the last two years.

In addition, the Hawks welcomed Luke Kennard with a one-year, $11 million deal. The sharpshooter, who played 65 games for the Memphis Grizzlies last season, averaged 8.9 points per game while shooting an impressive 43.3% from three-point range. His arrival adds depth to the Hawks' offensive capabilities, enhancing their long-range shooting following a season where they ranked 18th in the league. Trae Young's recruitment efforts have played a vital role in these signings, indicating the Hawks' commitment to building a competitive roster.

Luke Kennard, a talented guard previously with the Memphis Grizzlies, is set to join the Atlanta Hawks on a one-year deal worth $11 million. Kennard has built a reputation as one of the NBA's premier three-point shooters, maintaining over a 40% shooting percentage from beyond the arc during the last five seasons. Though he averaged 8.9 points per game this past season, his role fluctuated due to the competitive rotation in Memphis. With Kennard's departure, the Grizzlies will need to find suitable replacements for his shooting prowess.

Memphis is actively reshaping its roster in free agency, planning to sign Santi Aldama and Ty Jerome to new deals while also negotiating a five-year contract extension with Jaren Jackson Jr. To offset Kennard's absence, Ty Jerome, who also had a solid shooting percentage last season, and rookie Cam Spencer, drafted last year, are potential candidates to step into increased roles. The shifts in Memphis' lineup highlight the team's strategy to bolster its shooting capabilities moving forward.