NBA Rumor Roundup: Atlanta weighs McCollum extension, Haliburton recalls risky Finals return, Minnesota linked to Irving
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Atlanta Hawks
The Hawks are expected to examine contract options that would keep CJ McCollum in Atlanta past the upcoming season, league sources told HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto. The veteran guard, acquired from Washington in the Trae Young blockbuster, appeared in 41 regular-season games and averaged 18.7 points, helping to stabilize the offense alongside Jalen Johnson and Nickeil Alexander-Walker. He also played a key role in Atlanta’s six-game first-round series with the New York Knicks.
McCollum, 34, gives the Hawks another proven shot-creator, but his age and potential decline have sparked internal debate about a long-term commitment. Bleacher Report’s Grant Hughes recently cited that concern as a major offseason dilemma. A one-year arrangement was previously discussed, according to Dallas Hoops Journal, and could emerge as a compromise.
Indiana Pacers
Tyrese Haliburton revealed he entered Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals against Oklahoma City knowing he risked a possible Achilles tear, but said he refused to sit out. “If I were to have sat out that would have been weak,” he told Fullcourtpass on X. The guard’s decision further cemented his status as the Pacers’ franchise cornerstone.
Haliburton missed the entire following season after the injury, and Indiana finished with only 19 wins while struggling offensively. Before going down, he had averaged 18.6 points and 9.2 assists in 2024-25, earning All-NBA Third Team honors.
Indiana is banking on a healthy trio of Haliburton, Pascal Siakam and Ivica Zubac—acquired from the Clippers at the trade deadline—to reignite the club next year. The Zubac deal, combined with a fifth-place finish in the draft lottery, sent the Pacers’ protected first-round pick to Los Angeles and leaves Indiana without a 2026 first-rounder.
Minnesota Timberwolves
The Timberwolves are searching for ways to lighten Anthony Edwards’ offensive load, and Star Tribune columnist Jim Souhan named Kyrie Irving as a potential target. Souhan argued Irving may be more attainable than Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo, for whom Minnesota likely lacks the trade assets to compete.
Irving would add an elite shot-maker and playmaker who could ease defensive pressure on Edwards while complementing Jaden McDaniels. However, the 35-year-old guard is recovering from a torn ACL, making any pursuit a calculated gamble for a franchise seeking sustained championship contention.
Source: Hoops Wire
