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Should The Atlanta Hawks Bring CJ McCollum Back?

Originally posted on Last Word On Sports
By Garrett Brown  |  Last updated Mar 28, 2026 12:41 PM ET

The conversation around CJ McCollum’s future in Atlanta has changed quickly.

Not long ago, many questioned the return the Atlanta Hawks received when they moved on from Trae Young. Bringing in McCollum alongside Corey Kispert felt like a move that leaned more toward experience than upside.

However, as the season has progressed, that narrative has started to shift.

Now, McCollum’s future in Atlanta has become a real talking point as the Hawks evaluate what comes next.

Should The Atlanta Hawks Bring CJ McCollum Back?

McCollum is set to become an unrestricted free agent after the season, placing Atlanta in a delicate position. The team is trying to stay competitive while also maintaining flexibility for the future.

That balance is not easy to manage, especially when McCollum has become more valuable than initially expected.

McCollum has played a key role in helping the Hawks win games, especially during this recent stretch. He scored 27 points against the Detroit Pistons, including 14 in the fourth quarter and overtime, stepping up when the team needed him most.

Moments like that are difficult to overlook.

Beyond scoring, McCollum has helped stabilize the offense. He understands how to control the tempo, make the right reads, and keep the team organized late in games. For a roster that has dealt with inconsistency, that presence has been valuable.

Why McCollum’s Leadership Matters

Production is only part of the equation, especially when discussing McCollum’s future with Atlanta.

McCollum brings a veteran presence that goes beyond the stat sheet. He communicates well, leads by example, and maintains composure in high pressure situations. Those traits can shape a locker room, particularly for a team still developing its identity.

Younger players benefit from having someone they can rely on. McCollum’s experience helps guide decision making on the court while reinforcing accountability off it. That kind of leadership is not always easy to replace.

It also shows up in late game situations. McCollum has proven he can handle pressure, and that builds trust within the team. When games tighten, having a steady option can make a difference.

Finding the Right Balance

McCollum’s future ultimately comes down to how Atlanta wants to move forward. Letting him walk would create more flexibility, but it could also leave a gap in both production and leadership. Keeping him for the long term, on the other hand, may not align with the team’s timeline.

That is why a short-term deal makes the most sense.

A one- or two-year contract would allow the Hawks to remain competitive without limiting future options. It gives them time to evaluate their roster while still benefiting from McCollum’s presence.

There are risks to consider. Age and durability always factor into decisions like this. The front office has to determine whether his current level of play is sustainable.

Still, his recent performances have strengthened the case.

McCollum’s future is no longer just about fit. It is about value and direction.

If the Hawks want to stay competitive while maintaining flexibility, bringing him back on a short-term deal feels like the right move. If they shift fully toward youth, the decision could change.

For now, the middle ground offers the most balance. And based on what he has shown, McCollum has made a strong case to remain part of Atlanta’s plans.

This article first appeared on Last Word On Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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