Hawks Hold Firm on Okongwu as Southeast Trade Rumblings Grow
southeast-division-notebook-okongwu-bridges-wizards-magic
The Atlanta Hawks have turned away recent inquiries about center Onyeka Okongwu and are instead searching for ways to bolster their frontcourt depth, according to HoopsHype. The Indiana Pacers were among the teams that expressed interest earlier this month.
Atlanta is also signaling a willingness to absorb additional salary below the luxury-tax line if the deal includes second-round draft compensation. The club sits roughly $7 million beneath the tax threshold and holds several trade exceptions, the largest exceeding $13 million. If a roster spot becomes necessary, the Hawks could waive injured big man N’Faly Dante, who is out for the season with a torn ACL.
Other Hawks Notes
While the organization is expected to monitor any potential Giannis Antetokounmpo sweepstakes, Atlanta has no interest in parting with forward Jalen Johnson or its top 2026 first-round pick (the more favorable of the Bucks and Pelicans selections).
Hornets and Bucks Discuss Bridges
The Milwaukee Bucks and Charlotte Hornets recently talked about a framework involving forward Miles Bridges and center Bobby Portis. Charlotte has some interest in Portis, but the Hornets are seeking a larger return to move Bridges, and no momentum has developed. Milwaukee could also shift focus away from veteran role players like Bridges if Antetokounmpo is moved.
Wizards Eye Sarr, Gauge Middleton Interest
Despite reported curiosity about Jazz center Walker Kessler, the Washington Wizards view rookie Alex Sarr as their long-term answer in the middle, sources told HoopsHype. Washington has also fielded exploratory calls on forward Khris Middleton and his $33.3 million expiring contract, though extracting meaningful value for the veteran is considered challenging.
Magic Testing Market for Former Lottery Pick
The Orlando Magic have been gauging interest in 2023 lottery selection Jett Howard since the offseason. Moving his $5.5 million expiring deal would not pull Orlando out of tax range, making guard Tyus Jones ($7 million) and forward Jonathan Isaac ($15 million) more realistic trade candidates.
The NBA’s trade deadline remains weeks away, but teams across the Southeast Division are already positioning themselves for potential roster reshuffles.
Source: HoopsRumors
