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In a league where superstars can shift the balance of power overnight, the Atlanta Hawks are reportedly positioning themselves for one of the biggest acquisitions in franchise history: Dallas Mavericks forward Anthony Davis.
As the 2025-26 NBA trade deadline approaches, rumors are swirling that the Hawks could be the frontrunners to land the nine-time All-Star, potentially reshaping the Eastern Conference and igniting a new era of Hawks basketball.
Hawks Considering Anthony Davis
Sources indicate that the Hawks have Davis high on their wish list, viewing him as a transformative piece who could anchor their defense and provide elite scoring alongside emerging talents like Zaccharie Risacher and Dyson Daniels.
With Atlanta having traded All-Star guard Trae Young—whose dynamic playstyle has been a staple but perhaps not the perfect fit for long-term contention—the team sees a potential deal for Davis as a way to pivot toward a more balanced, championship-caliber roster.
Davis, currently with the Mavericks, has been the subject of intense speculation amid Dallas’s recent skid and questions about their title window.
The 32-year-old big man, known for his dominant two-way play, is averaging impressive numbers this season despite the team’s struggles.
League insiders report that Davis is open to a move to Atlanta, where he could sign an extension and chase another ring in a fresh environment.
This willingness aligns with Atlanta’s aggressive approach, as the Hawks join the Detroit Pistons and Toronto Raptors as expected suitors.
However, the path to acquiring Davis isn’t without hurdles.
The Hawks are reportedly not rushing a Young trade, and financial considerations loom large—pairing Davis’s max contract with Young’s would be challenging, making a Young-for-Davis swap unlikely given Dallas’s lack of interest.
Instead, Atlanta might need to orchestrate a multi-team deal, potentially involving assets like their control over the New Orleans Pelicans’ 2026 first-round pick, which has drawn interest from the Mavericks in return packages.
Critics argue that passing on Davis could be a missed opportunity for the Hawks, especially as they aim to climb back into playoff relevance after a middling start to the season.
Imagine Davis patrolling the paint at State Farm Arena, blocking shots and posterizing opponents—it’s the kind of addition that could electrify the fanbase and make Atlanta a destination for free agents once again.
As talks heat up, Hawks fans should stay tuned. If this deal materializes, it could be the spark that propels Atlanta back into the NBA’s elite. What do you think, ATL? Sound off in the comments below!
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In a stunning development that ends an era in Hawks basketball, the Atlanta Hawks have traded four-time All-Star point guard Trae Young to the Washington Wizards.
In return, Atlanta receives veteran guard CJ McCollum and wing Corey Kispert, with no draft picks involved in the deal, according to multiple reports including ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Hawks Trade Trae Young To Wizards
This move, in the works for days now, marks the close of Young’s remarkable seven-plus-year run with the Hawks, where he became the face of the franchise after being drafted in 2018. The Hawks are reportedly eyeing Dallas big man Anthony Davis.
Former NBA player and ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins reacted strongly to the deal, praising the Hawks’ pivot while hyping Young’s potential impact in Washington: “The Hawks made the right move. They got a young up-and-coming star in Jalen Johnson who is now their franchise player who is going to be the face of that franchise for a long time.”
Young, who led Atlanta to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021 and earned four All-Star nods plus All-NBA honors in 2022, has been central to some of the most exciting moments in recent Hawks history.
His elite scoring and playmaking — including leading the league in assists last season — made him a fan favorite and a nightmare for opposing defenses.
However, recent challenges set the stage for this split.
Basketball analyst Ciaran O’Neill gave high marks to both sides: “Wizards Grade: A. The Wizards buy low on 4x All-Star Trae Young, who will be their new franchise player and point guard of the future. He will be a great player to set up their abundance of young wings such as Tre Johnson, Bilal Coulibaly, and Keyshawn George. This deal gives Wizards fans a light at the end of the tunnel that they could potentially be a playoff team next year.”
The Hawks have struggled this season with Young in the lineup, posting a poor record and defensive issues, while the team has shown better pace, ball movement, and defensive intensity in games without him.
With significant front-office changes, a new head coach in Quin Snyder, and Young’s looming $49 million player option for next season limiting Atlanta’s flexibility, both sides saw a fresh start as the best path forward.
The trade reunites Young with Travis Schlenk — the executive who originally brought him to Atlanta and is now the Wizards’ vice president of player personnel.
Washington, deep in a rebuild with young talent and ample cap space, views Young as a high-upside addition who can orchestrate the offense, create for emerging players, and provide a spark to end their playoff drought (last appearance: 2021). The Wizards can absorb his contract without issue and potentially build around him long-term.
For the Hawks, the incoming pieces offer immediate value and future flexibility:
- CJ McCollum brings veteran leadership, reliable scoring (averaging around 18-19 points this season), and an expiring $30.6 million contract that opens up cap room and trade possibilities this summer.
- Corey Kispert adds sharpshooting from the wing on a team-friendly deal, complementing Atlanta’s young core including Jalen Johnson, Zaccharie Risacher, Dyson Daniels, Onyeka Okongwu, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker.
This deal allows the Hawks to pivot toward a more balanced, defense-oriented, and younger identity that has shown promise in stretches this season.
It also positions Atlanta to pursue other moves — potentially even targeting a big name like Anthony Davis — as they aim to climb back into Eastern Conference contention.
Final Word
Hawks fans, it’s the end of the Ice Trae era in Atlanta, but the beginning of something new. We’ll miss the logo threes, the clutch performances, and the energy he brought every night.
Thank you, Trae, for the memories — from that ECF run to countless highlight-reel plays.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for reactions, analysis, and what’s next for the Hawks. What do you think of the trade? Drop your thoughts in the comments below! #HawksNation #TradeSZN
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In a development that could signal the end of an era for the Atlanta Hawks, four-time All-Star guard Trae Young and his representatives are actively working with the franchise to explore trade options, sources told ESPN on Monday.
Young’s agents — Aaron Mintz, Drew Morrison, and Austin Brown of CAA — have engaged in positive and collaborative discussions with Hawks general manager Onsi Saleh over the past week, aiming to find a mutually agreeable resolution, according to the report from ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Trae Young, Hawks in Talks Before Trade Deadline
The 27-year-old Young, drafted by Atlanta in 2018 after a draft-night trade with Dallas, has been the cornerstone of the franchise for nearly eight seasons.
He holds the Hawks’ all-time records for 3-pointers made and assists, and led the team to three postseason appearances, including a memorable run to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021.
However, the relationship appears to have reached a turning point. The Hawks notably declined to offer Young a contract extension last summer, fueling speculation about his long-term future in Atlanta.
This season has added to the uncertainty: Young has been limited to just 10 games due to leg injuries, with the Hawks posting a 2-8 record in those contests compared to 15-12 without him. Opponents have scored nearly 10 fewer points per game when Young sits, per ESPN Research.
Emerging talents like forward Jalen Johnson — who is averaging impressive numbers this season — and recent additions such as Nickeil Alexander-Walker have shifted the team’s dynamics, prompting questions about whether Atlanta is ready to build around a new core.
While no specific trade destinations have been confirmed by the Hawks or Young’s camp, early rumors have linked potential suitors, including discussions involving teams like the Washington Wizards.
The NBA trade deadline is February 5, leaving just a month for negotiations to intensify.
Hawks fans have mixed emotions about the news, with Young’s electrifying playstyle — including his deep range and playmaking wizardry — making him a beloved figure at State Farm Arena.
Yet, the team’s struggles to build sustained contention around him have led many to wonder if a fresh start could benefit both sides.
The Hawks organization has not commented publicly on the report as of Monday evening. Stay tuned to Atlanta Sports Journal for updates as this story develops.
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For Black History Month and beyond, it’s very likely that you will find the Atlanta Hawks with their ‘MLK jerseys” on for some home games.
What Does The MLK Stand For On The Atlanta Hawks’ Jerseys?
The MLK stands for the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. How those jerseys came to be is a fascinating story culminating in a first-of-its-kind partnership between the King estate, the National Basketball Association (NBA), the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) and a popular sportswear company.
That sportswear company happens to be Nike, which manufactured the MLK jerseys, which are officially called MLK Nike City Edition uniforms.
Why Do The Atlanta Hawks Have MLK On Their Jersey?
The short answer is that the Atlanta Hawks have MLK on their jerseys to pay homage to a civil rights activist and hero who called Atlanta home. King’s birth home still sits in Old Fourth Ward at 501 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312, but more importantly, the leader’s principles of nonviolence continue to resonate today.
The Atlanta Hawks debuted MLK jerseys for the first time on January 17, 2022 in a game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Hawks home court also bore the letters ‘MLK.”
“It is an incredible privilege to be able to represent the legacy of Dr. King, one of Atlanta’s native sons and one of the nation’s most transformative leaders. His message of equality, non-violence, and justice is as relevant today as it was in the 60s and we are proud to not only help educate legions of young fans about Dr. King’s work, but empower them to pick up his mantle and embody the change they wish to see in their communities,” said Hawks Chief Marketing Officer, Melissa Proctor. “We are honored that the King Estate would entrust us with these powerful initials.”
5 Things About The MLK Jersey You Didn’t Know
1. The MLK jersey is made up of three primary colors:
- Infinity Black: This symbolizes the team’s bold, relentless, and unapologetic approach to competition and community.
- Vintage Gold: This hue befits the memory of King and reflects an air of sophistication.
- Fidelity White: This color embodies the team’s dedication and loyalty to the great city of Atlanta along with the ideals of equality and compassion.
2. The Colors Also Represent King’s Greek Fraternity
MLK was a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, one of the largest and most popular black Greek organizations at American universities and colleges.
King pledged the fraternity while enrolled at Morehouse College in southwest Atlanta.
3. The Stars Represent the Number Of Times King Was Detained By Police
According to the Hawks website: “The stars donning both sides of the shorts represent 22 of the 29 times Dr. King was jailed fighting for justice and equality, while also paying tribute to the dedicated student freedom fighters who engaged in sit-ins all over the South. Of them, he said, “Only when it is dark enough can you see the stars.” Towards the bottom of the jersey, Dr. King’s personal signature graces the authenticity tag.”
4. The Jersey Design Also Nods To MLK’s Church Affiliations
Design details pay homage to architectural features of the many churches that King delivered some of his most powerful sermons.
For example, the uniform is trimmed in white and gold, mirroring the silhouette of stained-glass windows you’d find at many churches in the South. The crown and shield symbol on the shorts is influenced by church windows and King’s personal effects.
5. The Hawks’ Logo Encircled In Black Symbolizes Black People’s Struggle
According to the Hawks’ website, “At the waistband is the Hawks’ Primary Icon logo encircled in black symbolizing the continuous quest of the Black community to achieve freedom and justice.”
Final Word
Will the Hawks wear their MLK jerseys for MLK Day coming up? Only time will tell.
Make sure you support the Hawks by buying tickets to Philips Arena. If you can’t go to the game, you can watch the Hawks live for free on TV.
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The Atlanta Hawks have secured their backcourt for the 2023-24 season, signing guard Dejounte Murray to a multi year contract.
The terms of the agreement were not disclosed by the team, who is hoping Murray can bring stability to the Hawks offense and help star guard Trae Young.
Hawks Re-Sign Murray
Murray averaged 20.5 points, 6.1 assists, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.5 steals in 74 games last season.
“Been Locked In From The Moment Y’all Accepted Me….. LOYALTY OVER EVERYTHING Let’s Gooooooooooooooo!!!!!!”
“DJ is someone we want to continue to build with. He’s a dynamic talent with the heart of a leader. He leads by example, is an unselfish teammate, and truly cares about winning,” said Hawks General Manager Landry Fields.
The deal comes 13 months after the San Antonio Spurs traded Murray, then an All Star, to the Hawks for forward Danilo Gallinari and a trio of first-round picks.
The original trade was as follows:
Hawks received:
• Dejounte Murray
• Jock LandaleSpurs received:
• Danilo Gallinari
• 2023 first-round pick (via Charlotte from New York, protected)
• 2025 first-round pick
• 2026 pick swap
• 2027 first-round pickThe Spurs used the picks in part to draft Victor Wembanyama with the No. 1.
Final Word
When it comes to sports and exercise, you should always make time. That’s why AtlantaFi.com wants to help you with your journey. Check out how to make a home gym for cheap and even lose pounds in a hurry.Read More on Atlantafi.com’s Sports Page:
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And there were some who didn’t even want Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young to even be in the NBA All Star Game. But of course, they were wrong.
Young proved them wrong not only at the game but long before it. Here’s how his All Star day went:
The 22-year-old rookie was perhaps the most busiest player in the history of All Star Weekend.
Young is the only player to play in three events on separate nights. Here’s what he accomplished:
- Friday night: NBA Rising Stars Game
- Saturday night: Three Point Contest
- Sunday night: All Start Game debut
Before The Game, Young Admired His All Star Threads
First-time All-Star @TheTraeYoung sees his #NBAAllStar threads! pic.twitter.com/nmexRXQaDq
— 2020 NBA All-Star (@NBAAllStar) February 16, 2020
After he tried on his new jersey, he got a biiiig All Star introduction.
Trae Young getting introduced as an All-Star starter 🙏 pic.twitter.com/xuLNhpW1VK
— FOX Sports: Hawks (@HawksOnFSSE) February 17, 2020
MR. BIG SHOT!
Young had his highlight moment when he jacked it up from the logo to end the half. Of course, it was nothing but net!
TRAE YOUNG. BANG. pic.twitter.com/JZI3bdaPYm
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) February 17, 2020
Here’s a crazy Twitter stat from Kevin Keneely: “85 players have attempted buzzer beaters from 40+ feet away to end the first half this season, totaling 110 attempts. Of those 110 attempts, only four have gone in… Trae Young has made half of them. Young is now 2-for-2 (100%) on such buzzer-beater attempts this season.”
Total Stat Line: 10 Points, !0 Assists
I’d say Young had himself a very good All Star day.
.@TheTraeYoung showed out in his All-Star Game debut, tallying 10 points and dishing 10 times
Presented by @KumhoTireUSA#TrueToAtlanta | #NBAAllStar pic.twitter.com/NREO43ET3a— Atlanta Hawks (@ATLHawks) February 17, 2020
Read More on Atlantafi.com’s Sports Page:
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On this episode of Road Trippin’ ATL, Kent Bazemore & Mike Muscala are joined by Detroit Pistons legendary guard Isiah Thomas.
Thomas shared a number of highlights from his playing days, including the fact that his team scored the most points in a regulation game: 186 points.
Thomas said that the Bad Boys’ defensive exploits were rooted in what he did in his earlier playing days. “I just went back to my old days, when I played for Coach Knight at Indiana,” he said. “Offenses today get all the glamour he said. “When we had to stop the pretty teams — L.A. was beautiful, Boston was beautiful and Chicago was beautiful — we are ugly,” he said.
Thomas said that with Detroit being a smaller media market, they didnt’ have the “boom mike” to create a narrative to rule the day. “We were the first San Antonio, when you look at small market teams. We really were the first model.”
Thomas also said he believes that the “Bad Boy” Pistons were really mislabeled. He said that he learned in school not to talk about certain things, but nobody told him that it applied to pro sports as well.
“I didn’t know that when you come to the NBA, the thing that you can’t talk about is race, class and gender.”
The podcast also gets into Kevin Love & DeMar DeRozan’s recent remarks of mental health, and Baze’s injury.
EPISODE 18: Bad Boy Isiah Thomas
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A whirlwind courtship that started at the Atlanta Hawks’ Tinder Night promotion has led to holy matrimony at last. Ben McCleskey and Avery Armstrong dated for three years after that fateful “Swipe Right Night.” Now, they’ve tied the knot.
“We are so thankful for all the Atlanta Hawks have done for us, especially Mr. Koonin, Janet Smith and Catie Scott,” said Mr. & Mrs. McCleskey in their first joint statement. “It’s been an amazing experience and we will cherish it forever. Our wedding was truly unforgettable.”
The Hawks and Philips Arena hosted the wedding ceremony, which took place in early March 2018, and included more than 250 guests, including Hawks CEO Mike Koonin.
“From that much-talked about promotion, none of us would have imagined that it would lead to our first wedding on the Hawks’ court,” Koonin was quoted as saying. “We all know that sports can unite people like few things can and we are happy to consider Avery and Ben Hawks fans and family for life.”
The night wasn’t complete without a video message from Rosette Pambakian, Tinder’s Head of Brand, who gifted the couple an all-inclusive honeymoon getaway.
“We want to congratulate Ben and Avery on their marriage,” Pambakian was quoted as saying. “We couldn’t be more thrilled that our
Swipe Right Night with the Hawks led to such an amazing story and a life-changing match – and we are excited to send
them on their honeymoon.”Now that’s what I call a slam dunk.
