The trade involving the Atlanta Hawks has been widely speculated on, as I mentioned earlier this week. Now, the final details have been revealed with the Hawks including a player they previously acquired this offseason primarily for financial reasons.
According to an announcement from the Atlanta Hawks:
The team has obtained forward Dorian Finney-Smith from the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for guards Buddy Hield, Ryan Nembhard, and cash considerations.
Hield originally joined the Hawks on February 5, 2026, coming over from the Golden State Warriors alongside Jonathan Kuminga in a deal for Kristaps Porzingis. Nembhard was brought to Atlanta on July 19, 2026, via a three-team trade with the Dallas Mavericks.
Finney-Smith is an experienced 3-and-D forward known for his ability to guard multiple positions and provide defensive flexibility. Last season, he saw limited action with the Rockets, playing in only 37 games due to a left ankle surgery in the offseason.
He is owed approximately $14.2 million this season, with his $13.3 million salary for next season completely unguaranteed. Hield and Nembhard together make about $11.8 million, so by making this move, the Hawks have edged closer to the luxury tax threshold, but they saved roughly $3 million in future salary commitments.
If Finney-Smith can get back to the level he demonstrated with Dallas and Brooklyn, he could be an important contributor off the bench for Atlanta.
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Fan Take: This trade signals the Hawks’ commitment to bolstering their defensive depth, which could reshape their competitiveness in the Eastern Conference. Basketball fans should watch closely to see if Finney-Smith can return to form, as his versatility may prove pivotal in the Hawks’ push for a deeper playoff run.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
