### Atlanta Hawks Make Strategic Moves in Offseason with Key Free Agent Signings The Atlanta Hawks have been active in the 2025 offseason, making significant additions to their roster aimed at improving both their offensive and defensive capabilities. The team has successfully acquired guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker from the Minnesota Timberwolves through a sign-and-trade deal, which involved sending a 2027 second-round pick and cash considerations to Minnesota. Additionally, the Hawks signed Luke Kennard to a one-year, $11 million contract using the mid-level exception. These moves come after a challenging previous season where the Hawks struggled offensively without their star player, Trae Young, on the court. The addition of Alexander-Walker and Kennard is expected to enhance the team's three-point shooting and overall depth, addressing the issues faced last season when key players were traded away [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/hawks_brilliant_offseason_continues_after_two_key_free_agent_signings/s1_17201_42398778][https://www.startribune.com/timberwolves-free-agent-nickeil-alexander-walker-atlanta-hawks-million/601384145]. ### Breakdown of the Hawks' Offseason Strategy 1. **Acquisition of Nickeil Alexander-Walker** - The Hawks secured Alexander-Walker on a four-year, $62 million deal, which includes a player option and a trade kicker, enhancing his contract's flexibility [https://www.keloland.com/sports/sports-illustrated/f83d0ac/nickeil-alexander-walker-comes-to-terms-with-hawks-on-massive-four-year-deal]. - This acquisition was facilitated through a sign-and-trade, allowing the Hawks to utilize their trade exception from a previous deal [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/hawks_acquire_nickeil_alexander_walker_in_sign_and_trade_with_timberwolves/s1_17038_42398271]. 2. **Signing of Luke Kennard** - Kennard was signed to a one-year contract worth $11 million, providing immediate shooting and depth to the roster [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/hawks_brilliant_offseason_continues_after_two_key_free_agent_signings/s1_17201_42398778]. - His addition complements Alexander-Walker’s skill set, particularly in three-point shooting, which was a significant weakness for the Hawks last season [https://www.ajc.com/sports/2025/07/hawks-add-key-defensive-piece-in-free-agency]. 3. **Impact on Team Dynamics** - The Hawks struggled offensively last season, particularly when Trae Young was off the court. The new signings are expected to alleviate this issue by providing reliable scoring options [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/hawks_brilliant_offseason_continues_after_two_key_free_agent_signings/s1_17201_42398778]. - Alexander-Walker’s improved three-point shooting (38.1% last season) and Kennard’s established shooting ability are anticipated to enhance the Hawks' offensive efficiency [https://www.keloland.com/sports/sports-illustrated/f83d0ac/nickeil-alexander-walker-comes-to-terms-with-hawks-on-massive-four-year-deal]. ### Summary of the Hawks' Offseason Moves In summary, the Atlanta Hawks have made strategic moves this offseason to bolster their roster significantly. 1. **Key Acquisitions**: - Nickeil Alexander-Walker (4-year, $62 million) via sign-and-trade. - Luke Kennard (1-year, $11 million). 2. **Addressing Weaknesses**: - Both players are expected to improve the Hawks' three-point shooting and overall offensive depth, which was lacking last season. 3. **Future Outlook**: - With these additions, the Hawks aim to create a more balanced and competitive team, particularly in light of their struggles without Trae Young on the floor. These strategic signings reflect the Hawks' commitment to enhancing their performance and competitiveness in the upcoming season [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/hawks_brilliant_offseason_continues_after_two_key_free_agent_signings/s1_17201_42398778][https://www.keloland.com/sports/sports-illustrated/f83d0ac/nickeil-alexander-walker-comes-to-terms-with-hawks-on-massive-four-year-deal].