Jalen Williams may not be the biggest name expected in trade rumors this offseason, but he could become one of the most intriguing targets for the Atlanta Hawks if the Oklahoma City Thunder are forced to make a difficult financial decision.
The Thunder have built one of the NBA’s premier young cores around Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren. That trio has helped establish Oklahoma City as one of the league’s rising powers, but keeping all three players together long term could become increasingly difficult.
Star Forward Jalen Williams Could Be 1 Incredible Hawks Addition
This season, Gilgeous-Alexander, Williams and Holmgren combined to earn approximately $58.6 million. Beginning next season, that figure is expected to jump to roughly $123.8 million due to rookie contract extensions for Williams and Holmgren. While Oklahoma City may ultimately be willing to pay that price, those numbers will force the organization to carefully evaluate its long-term roster construction.
The situation becomes even more interesting with the Thunder reportedly looking to move into the top four of the 2026 NBA Draft. Oklahoma City owns both the No. 12 and No. 17 picks and could potentially trade up to take Duke star Cam Boozer.
Executives around the league are floating the idea of the Thunder trading up to draft Cameron Boozer or Caleb Wilson, per @JakeLFischer
“‘What's to stop them from packaging No. 12, 17 and [even] future picks to try to go get Boozer or Wilson?’ one Eastern Conference executive… pic.twitter.com/r6xvq88trs
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) May 27, 2026
None of this guarantees Williams will become available. In fact, Oklahoma City likely views him as a major part of its future. However, when talented teams begin facing significant financial pressure, rival executives around the league pay attention.
The Hawks should be among those teams, especially if Williams ever ends up on the trading block.
Jalen Williams Fits Atlanta Perfectly
What makes Williams such an appealing target for Atlanta is how naturally he fits the team’s timeline and roster construction.
The Hawks already possess one of the league’s brightest young stars in Jalen Johnson, who recently earned 2026 All-NBA third team honors. Adding Williams alongside Johnson would instantly give Atlanta one of the most versatile forward pairings in the Eastern Conference.
At just 25 years old, Williams fits perfectly within the age range of Atlanta’s young core. Unlike some veteran trade targets who may offer only short-term value, Williams could remain a foundational piece for years to come.
The young forward has also established himself as one of the NBA’s most complete two-way players. His ability to defend multiple positions, knock down perimeter shots and impact winning without dominating the ball makes him an ideal fit in modern NBA offenses.
The Hawks have continued emphasizing versatility and positional flexibility under president of basketball operations Onsi Saleh, making Williams an even more logical target.
Perhaps most importantly, Williams brings a championship pedigree. Players who have contributed to winning at the highest level often become extremely valuable additions to teams attempting to take the next step. Atlanta is currently searching for exactly that type of player.
Hawks Have the Assets to Make a Serious Offer
If the Thunder ever become willing to discuss trading Williams, the Hawks possess enough assets to make meaningful conversations possible. OKC would likely seek a combination of young players, future draft picks and expiring contracts in return. Atlanta has enough flexibility to potentially satisfy those demands.
The Hawks currently own the No. 8 and No. 23 picks in this year’s draft. They also possess future draft capital, including the less favorable first-round pick between New Orleans and Milwaukee in 2027. While any potential trade package would likely be expensive, acquiring a player like Williams would justify a significant investment.
The star forward represents the type of player every organization searches for: young, productive, versatile and proven. Those players rarely become available. That is why Atlanta should closely monitor Oklahoma City’s situation throughout the offseason.
There is no indication the Thunder are actively shopping Williams, nor should they be. However, financial realities eventually force difficult decisions for even the league’s best organizations.
The Hawks are expected to remain aggressive after signing Saleh to a contract extension and promoting him to president of basketball operations. Whether Atlanta ultimately pursues veteran help, moves around the draft board, or explores the trade market, another active offseason appears likely.
If Jalen Williams becomes available, the Hawks should immediately explore every avenue to bring him aboard. Pairing Johnson with Williams would give Atlanta two young cornerstone forwards capable of helping lead the franchise for years to come.
For a Hawks team looking to continue building momentum, Williams may be exactly the type of player worth taking a major swing on.
© Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
