New Draft Day Trade Proposal Has Hawks Moving Back, Adding Key Timberwolves Reserve

New Draft Day Trade Proposal Has Hawks Moving Back, Adding Key Timberwolves Reserve

Could the Atlanta Hawks trade back in the first round of the NBA Draft while adding a key reserve player from the Timberwolves in a sign-and-trade? As Draft Day approaches, the Hawks have several intriguing options, including the possibility of trading up by using future draft capital or moving back to gain more assets while securing an established veteran.

One major shift for Atlanta came with a recent blockbuster trade involving Kristaps Porzingis. The Hawks acquired Porzingis and a 2026 2nd-round pick from the Celtics, while sending Terance Mann and the No. 22 pick to Brooklyn, with the Celtics getting Georges Niang and a 2031 2nd-rounder from Atlanta. Porzingis, who brings floor spacing, size, and versatility, is a strong addition, and with Trae Young’s need for defensive support, Porzingis could be a key figure in the Hawks’ plans, either as a starter or off the bench.

However, losing the 22nd pick could affect their chances of trading up. The Hawks still hold the 13th pick, which is just outside the top 10, offering potential selections like big men Derik Queen, Joan Beringer, or Danny Wolf. They could also target wings such as Cedric Coward or Collin Murray-Boyles.

Despite this, trading back and staying in the top 20 might be a smarter move. One intriguing option is the Minnesota Timberwolves, who are in a rebuilding phase after being eliminated by the OKC Thunder. While the Timberwolves have tried to make a splash by targeting Kevin Durant, reports suggest Durant isn’t interested in Minnesota long-term. Additionally, the Timberwolves have to make a decision about Nickeil Alexander-Walker, who is up for an extension but likely won’t get one due to salary cap constraints. Alexander-Walker, a valuable reserve for the Wolves, could be a potential target for the Hawks in exchange for moving back in the draft.

NBA insider Marc Stein has reported that the Hawks, with significant cap flexibility, are considering a sign-and-trade deal for Alexander-Walker. Here’s a possible scenario:

Proposed Trade:

Atlanta Hawks Receive:

• 2025 1st-round pick (via DET, from MIN, #17)

• Nickeil Alexander-Walker (Sign-and-Trade, 4 years, $68M)

• 2029 2nd-round pick (via CLE, from ATL)

Minnesota Timberwolves Receive:

• 2025 1st-round pick (via SAC from ATL, #13)

Why the Hawks Would Do This Deal:
Alexander-Walker has been a key contributor to the Timberwolves’ recent playoff runs, offering solid defense and playoff experience. His 9.4 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game on 43.8/38.1/78 shooting splits make him a great fit for the Hawks, who have seen the benefits of surrounding Trae Young with 3&D wings. NAW could play as a sixth or seventh man, pairing well with Young and Jalen Johnson, and he would provide valuable depth and flexibility. Additionally, the Hawks would still be able to pick a solid player in the top-20, potentially targeting a center like Joan Beringer or Maxime Reynaud.

Why the Hawks Might Not Do This Deal:
There is some risk in committing to NAW long-term, especially since the Hawks would be moving back in the draft. His role could overlap with Caris LeVert, and with Dyson Daniels’ extension looming, the Hawks may want to preserve flexibility. The trade would reduce their ability to make future moves.

Why the Timberwolves Would Do This Deal:
The Timberwolves would move up in the draft and potentially secure a cost-effective rotation player, whether that’s a center to replace Rudy Gobert or Naz Reid or a guard who could complement Anthony Edwards. There are options available at #17, like Kasparas Jakuconis or Jase Richardson, as well as potential bigs like Danny Wolf or Derik Queen. By moving on from Alexander-Walker, the Timberwolves can also rely on backup wings like Terrence Shannon Jr. or Jaylen Clark to step into bigger roles.

Why the Timberwolves Might Not Do This Deal:
Alexander-Walker’s experience and defense could be too valuable to the Timberwolves, especially with their current win-now mindset. Plus, they might prefer to keep their veteran player and use pick #17 to draft a player like Thomas Sorber, a defensive-minded center from Georgetown.