Strategic Moves: Atlanta Hawks Bolsters its Roster
The Atlanta Hawks have secured the acquisition of Nickeil Alexander-Walker from the Minnesota Timberwolves through a sign-and-trade deal for four years and $62 million. As part of the agreement, Atlanta will send a 2027 second-round pick, via Cleveland, and cash to Minnesota. In addition, the Hawks have finalized a one-year, $11 million deal with shooter Luke Kennard, who arrives as a free agent.Alexander-Walker’s new contract, which includes a player option and a trade clause, comes after a standout season in Minnesota, where he reached highs in total points, rebounds, assists, and three-pointers. The Timberwolves acquired Alexander-Walker as part of the Mike Conley trade with the Utah Jazz in 2023, and he became a key player in the following three seasons in Minnesota. With a height of 6 feet 5 inches and a long wingspan, Alexander-Walker is one of the best perimeter defenders in the league and has shot 38.6% from 3-point range in his last two seasons. He has also improved as a ball handler, bringing the ball up in 14.5 possessions per game last season. Alexander-Walker, who will turn 27 in September, was selected with the number 17 pick in 2019 and played for the New Orleans Pelicans and the Jazz before arriving in Minnesota. During this year’s playoffs, he became the first player with multiple 20-point games off the bench in a single postseason in Timberwolves history. Also, he is one of the five players who have participated in all 82 games of each of the last two seasons.Trae Young contacted Kennard and Alexander-Walker on Monday night to help recruit them for the franchise.
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