Atlanta Hawks Shake Up Roster with Major Trades at 2025 NBA Trade Deadline

On Thursday, February 6, 2025, the Atlanta Hawks made several significant moves ahead of the NBA trade deadline, signaling a strategic shift as they seek to balance their roster, manage the salary cap, and position the team for future success. Here’s a breakdown of the key trades:

1. De’Andre Hunter to Cleveland Cavaliers

• Hawks Sent: De’Andre Hunter

• Received: Caris LeVert, Georges Niang, three second-round picks, and two pick swaps

This move was viewed as a salary dump for the Hawks, with Hunter’s contract reportedly weighing on the team’s financial flexibility. In return, Atlanta acquired veteran wing Caris LeVert and sharpshooter Georges Niang, both capable of providing immediate scoring and floor spacing. The additional draft capital offers flexibility for future trades or roster development.

2. Bogdan Bogdanovic to Los Angeles Clippers

• Hawks Sent: Bogdan Bogdanovic and additional second-round picks

• Received: Terance Mann and Bones Hyland

The trade of Bogdanovic was seen as a significant effort to retool the roster. In return, the Hawks gained two promising guards. Terance Mann, known for his defensive versatility and efficiency, and Bones Hyland, a dynamic scorer, provide depth and energy to Atlanta’s backcourt.

3. Cody Zeller to Houston Rockets

• Hawks Sent: Cody Zeller and a 2028 second-round pick (via Houston)

This trade was primarily a cap-clearing move, allowing the Hawks to shed Zeller’s contract and create additional financial flexibility moving forward.

Strategic Implications

The Hawks’ actions at the deadline indicate a clear intent to reshape the team around cornerstone star Trae Young while navigating injuries and cap challenges. The acquisition of LeVert and Mann suggests an emphasis on improving perimeter play, while the draft assets from Cleveland offer future trade leverage.

By shedding Hunter and Bogdanovic’s contracts, Atlanta opens up salary space for potential moves in upcoming free agency periods while remaining competitive in the Eastern Conference playoff race.

As the Hawks integrate their new players, fans will be eager to see how these changes impact the team’s performance and long-term trajectory.