The Atlanta Hawks struck a surprise deal with a Western Conference contender, acquiring an NBA champion to fortify their backcourt just days before the 2026 NBA Draft. The move follows the team's agreement on a one-year, $21 million contract extension with veteran guard CJ McCollum on Sunday, according to Shams Charania.
McCollum, a key contributor to the New Orleans Pelicans' recent success, brings playoff experience and scoring punch to a Hawks squad looking to climb the Eastern Conference standings. The extension signals Atlanta's commitment to building a competitive roster around its young core, though specific details of the trade—including which player was sent to the West—have not yet been disclosed.
The trade reshapes the landscape for both teams as the offseason approaches. Atlanta now boasts a deeper rotation, while the Western contender frees up cap space or gains assets for future flexibility. The deal could have ripple effects on draft night, potentially influencing which prospects the Hawks target.
Atlanta will head into the draft with a retooled backcourt, pairing McCollum with Trae Young. The Hawks' next move will be closely watched as they aim to build on last season's playoff appearance.
Meanwhile, Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown jokingly floated a $400 million exit to the Shanghai Sharks on a deleted Twitch stream, while New York Knicks' Karl-Anthony Towns celebrated the 2026 championship by posing with a 'Game of Thrones' prop ahead of 'House of the Dragon' Season 3.