Scout Praises Hawks’ Post-Young Strategy; Heat Lean Away From Buyouts; Magic Hold Roster Opening
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An NBA scout who once doubted Atlanta’s ceiling with Trae Young at the core now believes the Hawks chose a clear direction ahead of the trade deadline, according to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Atlanta shipped Young to Washington for CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert, then completed four additional deals that landed Jonathan Kuminga, Buddy Hield, Gabe Vincent, Jock Landale and three future second-round picks.
“I think they’re going all in on chemistry over absolute talent,” the scout said. “Trae was a better player than what they had, but not necessarily a winning player.” He noted that nearly every newcomer provides shooting—Kuminga is the lone exception.
Beyond added shooting, the moves created extra cap flexibility, brought in former lottery pick Kuminga and bolstered draft capital. Atlanta also holds a valuable 2026 first-round pick, which will be the more favorable of the Bucks’ and Pelicans’ selections.
The scout sees long-term growth potential but expects additional tweaks this summer. Possible targets include an upgrade at center over Onyeka Okongwu or a long defensive wing to replace rookie Zaccharie Risacher, along with bench reinforcements.
Heat likely to sit out buyout market
The Miami Heat, traditionally aggressive after the deadline, may skip this year’s buyout market, the Miami Herald reports. Team officials want to preserve meaningful minutes for younger players during the season’s final two months. That priority also contributed to Miami’s quiet deadline following an unsuccessful pursuit of Giannis Antetokounmpo.
G League success for Jahmir Young
Two-way guard Jahmir Young has logged only 44 NBA minutes across eight games, yet he is flourishing with the Sioux Falls Skyforce, averaging 26.2 points, 8.9 assists and 5.3 rebounds in 22 G League contests. “He’s been playing simply fantastic basketball,” head coach Erik Spoelstra said, adding that teammates urge him to throttle back in practice while coaches encourage his relentless style.
Magic keep 15th roster spot open
The Orlando Magic still have one vacancy on their 15-man roster after signing Jevon Carter earlier this month, the Orlando Sentinel notes. Management is expected to wait until March or April to fill the spot to remain below the luxury-tax threshold. Two-way forward Jamal Cain is viewed as a potential call-up.
Source: Hoops Rumors
