The Atlanta Hawks have been linked with an MVP point guard, while their star guard, Trae Young, expects a contract extension.
The Hawks were one of free agency’s big winners. They traded for Kristaps Porzingis, signed Nickeil Alexander‑Walker, and made an incredible draft day trade for the New Orleans Pelicans’ unprotected first-round pick in 2026.
They are the trending pick to contend in the Eastern Conference, but Young is “disappointed” that he is yet to be offered a contract extension, according to ESPN’s Marc Spears. Meanwhile, they are linked with another point guard.
Atlanta Hawks linked with Russell Westbrook
The Atlanta Hawks have been linked with 2017 NBA MVP Russell Westbrook, who is still without a team. Westbrook performed well for the Denver Nuggets last season, helping them take the eventual champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder, to seven games.
Westbrook’s infectious energy and veteran experience could be crucial for this developing Hawks roster, who find themselves in a position to contend in the East.
NBA reporter Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints said the Hawks were an option for Westbrook in free agency. He wrote, “As previously mentioned, it makes the most sense for Russ to join a team that already has established players and is ready to compete right now.
“Atlanta took a massive step in this direction by adding the likes of Kristaps Porzingis, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and Luke Kennard this summer.
“Next to Trae Young, Jalen Johnson, Dyson Daniels, and other talents on the Hawks’ roster, this organization is primed for the most growth in the Eastern Conference during the 2025-26 season.
“Honestly, it’s not hard to look at what the Hawks have done and think they can contend with the best in the East.”
In a weakened Eastern Conference, the Hawks could make a run at the finals with Westbrook.
Atlanta Hawks look to go one step further with Trae Young
Young led the Hawks to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021, where they were beaten by the title-winning Milwaukee Bucks, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo.
The All-Star guard was exceptional on Atlanta’s postseason run. He averaged 29 points and nine assists per game, beating the New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers on his way to the Conference Finals. Young then dropped 48 in game one against Milwaukee.
Now the East is there for the taking, and the Hawks could go one step further this year. The Boston Celtics are out of the picture this season after Jayson Tatum’s injury. As are the NBA finalist Indiana Pacers, who are without Tyrese Haliburton for the season.
The Bucks are in disarray, which led to Antetokounmpo considering his future, and the 76ers are in an injury crisis.
The Hawks will have to contend with the Knicks and their new Head Coach Mike Brown, last season’s one seed the Cleveland Cavaliers, and the Orlando Magic led by young star Paolo Banchero.
They have as good a chance as anyone in the conference to run through the East.