When the Atlanta Hawks traded the 13th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft to the New Orleans Pelicans, it was initially seen as a cap space-saving move. However, what Atlanta gained from that draft night move could become one of the league’s best assets. In fact, the Pelicans’ 2026 first-round pick could quietly turn into a franchise-defining piece for the Hawks.
Hawks 2026 Draft Pick Could Shape Franchise’s Future
At first glance, the pick might seem like another future draft asset. But in today’s NBA, where stars change teams quickly, the Hawks’ control of the 2026 pick carries real weight. The Hawks front office stunned that the Pelicans were willing to part with the pick without any protections attached. Even if the Pelicans stay competitive and the pick does not convey from New Orleans, Atlanta could still benefit.
“WHAT ARE THEY THINKING!?”@getnickwright could not believe what the Pelicans traded to the Hawks during the NBA Draft pic.twitter.com/9RZ8kBcOOi
— What’s Wright? with Nick Wright (@WhatsWrightShow) June 26, 2025
Next year, the Hawks “will receive the more favorable” of the Milwaukee Bucks 2026 first-round pick and the Pelicans’ 2026 first-round round pick and the Bucks “will receive the less favorable” of the two picks (h/t Fanspo). With that in mind, the Bucks could face a crossroads if Giannis Antetokounmpo decides to leave via trade. In that case, Milwaukee’s 2026 first-round pick could become extremely valuable itself. That situation would put Atlanta in a strong position to capitalize.
The Hawks Advantage Over Bucks
The Hawks could control part of Milwaukee’s draft capital in both 2026 and 2027.
New Orleans “will receive the more favorable” of its 2027 first-round pick and the Bucks’ 2027 first-round pick. Atlanta “will receive the less favorable” of the two picks, which will be top-four protected. However, if Milwaukee’s pick isn’t conveyable, then the Pelicans will receive both picks.
It all goes back to Giannis. If the Bucks struggle or begin to rebuild after Antetokounmpo’s exit, the Hawks could end up with one of basketball’s most coveted picks. That leverage enhances the Hawks flexibility. They could draft a young star if the pick lands high in the lottery or trade it for a proven player to speed up their push toward contention.
Trade Targets and Draft Options for Atlanta’s 2026 Pick
As I explored in an article earlier this week, if the Bucks are forced to trade Antetokounmpo, the Hawks could swoop in. After all, Atlanta’s front office may look to keep Trae Young surrounded by elite talent. Beyond Antetokounmpo, Lauri Markkanen could become a realistic trade target if the Utah Jazz decide to reset.
If the Hawks keep the pick for the 2026 NBA Draft, that class is expected to be loaded with talent. Kansas guard Darryn Peterson, BYU wing AJ Dybantsa, and Duke forward Cameron Boozer are projected to be future stars. If they’re looking at the 2027 draft class instead, Sherman Oaks forward Tyran Stokes is the most heralded prospect, but there are several others receiving high marks.
The Last Word On The Hawks’ Defining Moment
The 2026 first-round pick that Atlanta received from New Orleans represents more than a future asset; it’s a chance for the team to take control of its direction. Whether they use it to trade for or draft a cornerstone player, the pick could define the next era of Hawks basketball. Even so, Hawks general manager Onsi Saleh and his staff will soon face a defining choice. They must decide whether to use the pick to maximize Young’s prime or build for long-term success
Either way, the 2026 draft pick stands as a pivotal piece that could shape the Hawks’ future for years to come.
© Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
