With the 2025 NBA Draft officially concluded and free agency set to begin, all teams are looking to retool their rosters. The Atlanta Hawks are no exception, having already made significant moves ahead of the offseason frenzy.
The Hawks are poised to sign Kristaps Porzingis after agreeing to terms with the Boston Celtics and the Brooklyn Nets on a three-team trade. Atlanta also made notable moves on draft night.
Derik Queen, who was initially drafted by the Hawks, will soon join the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange for a 2026 first-round pick. After the Pelicans secured Asa Newell with the 23rd overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, the Hawks then acquired the draft rights to Newell and an unprotected 2026 first-round pick from the Pelicans for Queen.
However, reports indicate that the Hawks may not be done making moves. They currently have three open roster spots, and speculation is intensifying regarding potential acquisitions.
Hawks Target Nickeil Alexander-Walker to Enhance Roster Flexibility
One strategic approach for the Hawks to fill a roster spot is by utilizing the $25.2 million trade exception, which was created last summer. This exception arose from dealing Dejounte Murray to the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange for Dyson Daniels, Larry Nance Jr., and two first-round picks. Under the rules of this exception, Atlanta can acquire one or more players whose combined salaries fit within that amount.
As reported exclusively by PFSN, Nickeil Alexander-Walker might be a top player on their wish list. The Hawks have been heavily linked with Alexander-Walker and Cleveland Cavaliers guard Ty Jerome. Alexander-Walker’s ability as a 3-and-D wing makes him a suitable fit for Atlanta. Additionally, at just 26 years old, he represents a potential long-term asset for the team.
Pairing him with Trae Young could further enhance the Hawks’ perimeter shooting, providing a valuable offensive boost. Alexander-Walker is recognized as one of the finest perimeter defenders in the NBA, and his career 38.3 percent three-point shooting accuracy from college opens up significant potential for the Hawks.
I just wanna say before free agency opens given we likely won’t be bringing him back…
Nickeil Alexander-Walker, you have a fan for life
You gave everything you had to the Wolves and our fanbase will always be eternally grateful pic.twitter.com/x7C6V1XORy
– Wolves Lead (@TWolvesLead) June 29, 2025
In the 2024-2025 season, Alexander-Walker played for the Minnesota Timberwolves, earning a salary of $4.3 million. A first-round pick from the 2019 NBA Draft, Alexander-Walker has previously played for the New Orleans Pelicans, Utah Jazz, and Timberwolves.
Examining Atlanta’s 2025 NBA Draft Picks and Season Performance
The Atlanta Hawks concluded the 2024-2025 season with a regular season record of 40-42. They finished eighth in the Eastern Conference standings, though they were second in the Southeast Division. Despite these placements, the season was broadly viewed as a disappointment by fans, especially after the team failed to advance past the play-in tournament.
Following their underwhelming season, the team aggressively approached the 2025 NBA Draft. Aside from drafting Derik Queen, the Hawks also selected Drake Powell, who was then traded to the Brooklyn Nets as part of the Kristaps Porzingis three-team trade. Once the Pelicans drafted Asa Newell, the Hawks utilized their trade exception from last year to acquire the former Georgia Bulldog.
Asa Newell live reaction 👏👏 pic.twitter.com/AbnC4tcsag
– Atlanta Hawks (@ATLHawks) June 29, 2025
If the Hawks successfully acquire Alexander-Walker, it could signal a significant turning point for the upcoming season. Atlanta has struggled with consistency in recent years, but adding a versatile shooter and defender to their roster might be precisely what they need to stabilize the team and elevate their overall potential.
With the right personnel now in place, the Hawks could transform into a formidable contender, capable of challenging their Eastern Conference rivals.
