Hawks Trade Rumors and Jalen Johnson’s Breakout

According to league sources, the Hawks are monitoring the superstar trade landscape closely as they evaluate long-term roster construction around Trae Young and breakout MVP candidate Jalen Johnson. While any Giannis trade would require assets, executives around the league believe Atlanta is quietly positioning itself as a team capable of entering such conversations if the opportunity ever arises. With a mix of young talent, draft capital, and movable contracts, executives around the league believe Atlanta has one of the best packages available for Milwaukee.

Onsi Saleh made a trade on draft night with the New Orleans Pelicans to obtain New Orleans’ Unprotected 1st round pick in the 2026 draft. New Orleans currently has the 2nd worst record in the league at 4-22. Milwaukee has been rumored to be targeting this pick in a Giannis trade as it would be one of the best opportunities they could have to start a rebuild with Giannis gone.

Jalen Johnson’s shot making this season has allowed a lineup of him and Giannis on the floor at the same time possible. Giannis would help the Hawks’ rebounding, which is something they have struggled with all year long. The defense being led by Dyson Daniels, Nickeil Alexander Walker, and Giannis Antetokounmpo would be lethal for opposing teams. A Trae Young/Giannis pick and roll offense would be unstoppable as well. Giannis, a two-time MVP and former NBA champion, is averaging 28.9 PPG, 10.1 REB, and 6.1 AST. Jalen Johnson has been in MVP talks since Trae Young went down with a knee injury. He is averaging 23.2 PPG, 10.5 REB, and 8 AST. A potential new front court duo could open the Hawks up for a championship opportunity.