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Remaining Atlanta Hawks offseason checklist
Jason Getz-Imagn Images

The Atlanta Hawks have already been dubbed by many in the national media as early offseason winners, but there is still work left to be done.

Obviously, the Giannis Antetokounmpo situation is going to be monitored closely by everyone in the league, including the Hawks. They are as well positioned as anyone to get involved in those sweepstakes if Antetokounmpo decides he wants out, which feels very possible after the events of yesterday.

However, there’s no question the Hawks, or anyone for that matter, landing Antetokounmpo is very much a long shot. Most likely, Atlanta’s new GM will continue to build out this roster, filling a couple of more critical needs.

Atlanta Hawks Remaining Offseason Checklist

Backup Point Guard

Perhaps the Hawks feel comfortable with Kobe Bufkin behind Trae Young. There have been flashes at times, but overall, he’s played in just 27 games since being drafted two years ago and is shooting 37.4% from the field and 22.0% from beyond the arc. On top of that, he’s coming off a season-ending injury. At the very least, adding some competition in the form of a veteran feels necessary.

Third Center

Following the acquisition of Kristaps Porzingis, the Hawks have quite the menacing center duo, one that complements each other very well. In a perfect world, a third center won’t ever see the floor this season. But given Kristaps Porzingis’ injury history, having a competent backup is absolutely a must. Porzingis played in just 42 games last season for the Celtics and has not played in more than 65 games in a single season since his rookie campaign.

Wing Depth

The Hawks added two really good shooting guards on the first day of NBA free agency in Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Luke Kennard. Both are going to play pivotal roles in Atlanta, but another small forward to add to the wing rotation would not hurt. As it currently stands, Zaccharie Risacher is the only legitimate small forward on the roster, even if the Hawks could play big or small at the position with guys like Jalen Johnson and Alexander-Walker.

Trae Young extension

I saved the best for last. Trae Young is entering the final year of his contract, and this time last year, nobody knew if he would even be interested in re-signing with the Hawks. That tune has changed completely in just one season. Young is reportedly all-in and ecstatic with the direction of the organization. He has embraced the role of a leader and even helped recruit several free agents to Atlanta. It feels like a foregone conclusion that the Hawks will eventually ink him to a long-term contract this offseason.

This article first appeared on SportsTalkATL and was syndicated with permission.

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