Boston Celtics: Kristaps Porzingis' Expected Return Date From His Jun 9, 2024; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis (8) reacts after a play against the Dallas Mavericks during the first quarter in game two of the 2024 NBA Finals at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-USA TODAY Sports

'I’m Happy That They’re on My Team' – Atlanta Hawks’ Trae Young is Satisfied With the Team’s 2025 Free Agency Acquisitions

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Jordan Samar | Last updated Jul 19, 2025 5:39 AM ET

The Atlanta Hawks have been one of the busiest teams this offseason, as they retooled their roster with several high-profile signings, which Trae Young approves.

After trading for Kristaps Porzingis, the Atlanta Hawks also acquired Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Luke Kennard via free agency. Young said recently he likes these moves since he is intent on winning an NBA championship.

“I talked to both of them on the phone. I was able to talk to them. I’ve known them for years. I mean, being in this game, you connect with guys throughout the years, so I’ve known both of those guys for years. But yeah, I reached out to both of them and we were able to connect,” Young said on his YouTube channel.

Atlanta Hawks: Trae Young Uncertain Future Draws Strong Take From 1 Analyst 10 Mar 3, 2025; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) walks off the court at halftime against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

“Obviously, they both had options, but I wanted them on my team, and I know they would make our team better. So we were able to talk and make it happen. I’m happy that they’re on my team—we made it work,” he added.

Atlanta Hawks poach three-year veteran from division rivals

The Atlanta Hawks further strengthened their wing depth with the signing of Caleb Houstan last Thursday, per Michael Scott of HoopsHype . Houstan has agreed to a one-year deal with Atlanta after the Orlando Magic declined its $2.1 million option on his contract for next season.

Getting Techs Hurts Us': Josh Hart Reveals Realization After Conversation With NBA Referee 12 Jan 6, 2025; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks guard Josh Hart (3) shoots past Orlando Magic guard Caleb Houstan (2) in the first quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

Before joining the Atlanta Hawks, Houstan played 168 regular season games (23 starts) for the Orlando Magic, averaging 4.1 points and 1.5 rebounds on 39.1 percent shooting from the field.

Houstan struggled to get steady minutes in Orlando. He faces the same challenge here in Atlanta because he will fight for playing time against Dyson Daniels , Jalen Johnson, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Luke Kennard, and Vit Krejci.