Hawks offseason outlook: Despite the dismal end to the season, things are looking up for Atlanta

What a different world the Atlanta Hawks live in now, compared to the beginning of the season.

Gone is Trae Young, and in his place as the team’s leader is Jalen Johnson, the multifaceted All-Star power forward who can do just about everything and averaged 22.5 points, 10.3 rebounds and 7.9 assists on the season.

Announcement

While observers will ridicule the Hawks for their historic Game 6 collapse against the New York Knicks (if you know, you know), the fact is that these Hawks head into the summer with far more reason for optimism than before.

CJ McCollum, who was acquired in the Young trade, fits the team much better than Young ever did with his ability to play off the ball and not commanding a high usage rate.

Elsewhere, the Hawks are loaded with affordable talent, which should provide them with a huge financial safety net for the future.

Yes, they have some decisions to make, but overall Hawks fans should start this summer with hope instead of despair.

Announcement

End 2025-26

Record: 46-36, sixth in the Eastern Conference. Eliminated by the New York Knicks in six games in the first round.

Highlight of the season

Nickeil Alexander-Walker turns into a 20-point scorer and becomes one of the most effective contracts in the NBA. Atlanta signed him with an entirely different premise, expecting him to become a key role player and add depth. It’s worth keeping an eye on its evolution.

The players have signed for next season

Jalen Johnson

Dyson Daniels

Onyeka Okongwu

Nickeil Alexander-Walker

Corey Kispert

Zaccarie Risacher

Asa Newell

Key free agents

CJ McCollum (UFA)

Jonathan Kuminga (team option)

Announcement

Expected salary

$116,704,230

Expected draft picks

Nos. 7, 23 and 57

Draft focus: This team is improving – and quickly. The Hawks need another huge bite at the apple, in the form of – preferably – a guard. Whichever player is left on the board at number 7 with the most stars at the top will be the one they should choose. Alternatively, using that pick for a trade with a young, established player cannot be ruled out.

The Hawks aren’t expensive and that shouldn’t change even if they pick up Kuminga’s option and re-sign McCollum. They should have the ability to use the full non-fiscal MLE if they remain as a team above the cap, which they should.

Announcement

Needs and goals

Next season the Hawks will have to find themselves near the top of the Eastern Conference. They are too talented and too deep to not compete for a top spot. Whatever helps them on their path, whether it’s a beginner or an established helper, is probably worth it. The Hawks have some flexibility, but it is essential that they make wise choices.