Atlanta Hawks fire GM Landry Fields (June 2025) amid pivotal contract talks for Trae Young & MIP Dyson Daniels. Key offseason decisions loom for the Hawks.
StatPro NBA Beat Reporter
Thursday, June 5, 2025, brought a whirlwind of news for the Atlanta Hawks, signaling a potentially transformative offseason. The biggest shockwave came with the dismissal of General Manager Landry Fields by governor Tony Ressler, ushering in a search for new leadership. This major change comes as the team navigates crucial contract extension negotiations with superstar Trae Young and the reigning Most Improved Player, Dyson Daniels.
With Trae Young eligible for a $200+ million extension and Dyson Daniels set for a massive payday, the Hawks' future hinges on these critical negotiations.
The decision to part ways with Landry Fields indicates a desire for a fresh direction after a 40-42 season that, while resulting in a playoff berth, was hampered by injuries, notably to Jalen Johnson. Now, the focus shifts to who will steer the ship. Simultaneously, the Hawks are deep in talks to secure their cornerstone pieces. Trae Young, who averaged a double-double for the third straight season, is eligible for a four-year extension worth over $200 million. Letting that drag could see him become a free agent in 2026. Then there's Dyson Daniels, whose breakout third year earned him not only Most Improved Player honors but also a spot on the All-Defensive First Team. He's also extension-eligible and is expected to command a significant salary. These aren't just contract talks; they're foundational decisions for the franchise's competitive window.
Despite the front office uncertainty, the Hawks have a lot to be excited about with their young talent. Zaccharie Risacher just made the All-Rookie Team, and alongside Daniels and Young, forms a potent core. Don't forget Jalen Johnson, who was putting up incredible numbers (18.9 PPG, 10 RPG, 5 APG on 51% shooting) before his season-ending injury; he's expected to be a key contributor next season. As the NBA Draft approaches, the Hawks are looking to further enhance this youth movement. Duke guard Kon Knueppel is one name being floated as a potential target. The strategy seems clear: build around this exciting young nucleus and aim for sustained success.
Financially, the Hawks are in a surprisingly good spot. The team's salary cap situation is described as 'pretty clean,' offering valuable flexibility this offseason. The recent trade involving De'Andre Hunter also helped create some breathing room. This means the Hawks have the capacity to add talent in free agency without necessarily venturing into luxury tax territory. The front office, whoever leads it, will have the tools to be active and aggressive in improving the roster, with the clear goal of winning more games in the 2025-26 season and building on their 8th seed finish in the East (117.0 PPG on 46.6% shooting).
This offseason is shaping up to be one of the most pivotal in recent Hawks history. With a new GM on the horizon, crucial contract extensions for our stars, and a chance to bolster the roster through the draft and free agency, the decisions made in the coming weeks will undoubtedly define the Hawks' trajectory for years to come. Stay tuned, Hawks fans – it's going to be a busy summer!
