Atlanta Hawks’ Approach To The 2026 Trade Deadline

The Atlanta Hawks sit 10th in the Eastern Conference with a 17-20 record. They weathered the storm, and even thrived, without Trae Young, going 14-9 without their All-Star point guard. Jalen Johnson and Nickeil Alexander-Walker surprised many people with their big leaps so far this season. However, Atlanta ran into a brick wall in the form of a seven-game losing streak from Dec. 18 to Dec. 29. It won just two of its last 10 games. Just a few short weeks ago, the Hawks looked like they were in a prime position to buy ahead of the Feb. 5 trade deadline. Their recent poor form could shift that position, as the NBA world shifts its focus to one of the most exciting stretches of the season.

Atlanta Hawks’ Approach to the 2026 Trade Deadline

Hawks Add Center Depth

If general manager Onsi Saleh wants to be aggressive, he must address Atlanta’s concerns at the small forward and center positions. While Kristaps Porziņģis and Zaccharie Risacher are more than capable starters, the Hawks lack depth behind them. As a result, head coach Quin Snyder has had to mix and match lineups, forcing some players to play outside of their optimal roles.

Porziņģis only played 15 of Atlanta’s first 37 games. Onyeka Okongwu took advantage with career-high numbers across the board, but the Hawks’ depth behind him is slim. N’Faly Dante suffered a season-ending torn ACL, meaning power forwards Asa Newell and Mouhamed Gueye had to cover center minutes. Their athleticism on the glass and helpside rim protection is best suited for the four rather than battling for position down low against much stronger centers. Atlanta should target more size and rim protection behind Okongwu if it wants to push for the playoffs.

Insiders already linked the Hawks and Dallas Mavericks in potential Anthony Davis trades, but another Mavericks’ big man could help Atlanta for a lower price. Dallas could be headed for a rebuild around rookie phenom Cooper Flagg and likely moves some of its veteran players before the deadline. Daniel Gafford signed a three-year, $54.4 million veteran extension from 2026-2028. With Porziņģis’ contract set to expire after this season, Gafford could serve as a reliable rim protector and rebounder behind Okongwu. Okongwu’s improved 3-point shooting also gives Atlanta the ability to play him at the four next to Gafford. The Hawks likely would not have to give up much to acquire the 6’10” center. Plus, he would be under contract through the 2028-2029 campaign.

Atlanta Could Sell And Make A Drastic Move