The Atlanta Hawks are hoping to surprise many this season, much like the Indiana Pacers did last year when they made an unexpected run to the NBA Finals. Atlanta has restructured its roster around star point guard Trae Young, aiming for a deep playoff run. However, unlike the Pacers, who had Tyrese Haliburton’s long-term contract secured, the Hawks face a different challenge: Trae Young’s potential contract extension is still pending, creating an intriguing storyline for the team’s upcoming season.
✍️ Trae Young’s Contract Situation
A key difference between the Hawks and last season’s Pacers lies in their star point guards’ contract statuses. Tyrese Haliburton of the Pacers signed a five-year, $244.6 million extension in July 2023, solidifying his future with the team as he ascended to All-Star status. Trae Young, the Hawks’ equivalent, is in a different position. Despite being a four-time All-Star, an assists champion, and an All-NBA Third Team selection, Young, who turns 27 soon, has not yet been offered a new long-term extension. He became eligible for a four-year, $222.4 million extension last month. For now, Young is scheduled to earn $45.9 million this season, with a $48.9 million player option for 2026-27. This situation, unlike Luka Dončić’s recent extension with the Lakers, adds an element of uncertainty for the Hawks, even if the team’s commitment to Young’s talent seems clear.
🛠️ A Revamped Roster Built for Success
The Hawks have actively reshaped their roster to complement Trae Young’s unique skills, hoping he and the team can thrive together. Last season offered exciting glimpses of this potential. Guard Dyson Daniels had a breakout year, earning the Kia Most Improved Player award and finishing second in Kia Defensive Player of the Year voting. Forward Zaccharie Risacher developed in a starting role under coach Quin Snyder. Jalen Johnson was also having an excellent season, averaging 18.9 points and 10 rebounds, before a shoulder injury ended his season prematurely. Additionally, center Onyeka Okongwu significantly improved his scoring and rebounding in his starting appearances. The front office made smart moves this offseason, adding Kristaps Porzingis, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and Luke Kennard to deepen the bench and fill crucial roles, all players whose games could align well with Young’s play style.
✨ Young’s Impact and Defensive Focus
Trae Young’s offensive brilliance is undeniable; he has consistently averaged over 24 points and nine assists for six seasons, a feat only surpassed by Oscar Robertson. While his career shooting percentages (43.3% overall, 35.2% from three-point range) and 4.2 turnovers per game suggest areas for efficiency improvement, his ability to score and create for teammates makes him an elite offensive force. Defensively, Young has faced criticism throughout his career due to his size and focus, and the Hawks ranked 18th in defensive rating last season, indicating significant room for improvement. However, with injuries sidelining key Eastern Conference players like Tyrese Haliburton and Jayson Tatum, the Hawks see an opportunity to secure a top-four seed. Their improved roster, coupled with their strong finish last season (13-9 run and a Play-In Tournament spot), suggests they are ready to chase that success and aim for their first NBA Finals appearance since relocating to Atlanta 57 years ago.
