Day one of free agency has come to a close. After a quiet first half of the day, the Hawks made major moves in the evening. It began with the signing of Dwight Howard to a 3-year deal worth over $70 million. Atlanta did not stop there as it was announced that the Hawks officially re-signed Kent Bazemore to a 4-year deal worth $70 million.
BREAKING: The Atlanta Hawks have signed Kent Bazemore for 4yr/$70 million pic.twitter.com/z5nAWxyKrS
— SportsTalkATL.com (@SportsTalkATL) July 2, 2016
Bazemore reportedly turned down slightly more money from both the Lakers and Rockets to remain in Atlanta. The move uses up nearly all of Atlanta’s current cap space. It would be impossible for Atlanta to re-sign Al Horford with the current roster. But the Hawks are not out of the Al Horford sweepstakes just yet. Adrian Wojnarowski of the Vertical tweeted that negotiations between the Hawks an Horford are still ongoing, but the decision certainly got tougher for Horford.
Sources: Hawks aren't ruling out possibility that they could bring back Al Horford. If he decides to stay, ATL has ways to unload salary.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 2, 2016
The Hawks have multiple contracts they could unload for Horford. Paul Millsap is making nearly $20 million dollars, and the Hawks seem to be fielding offers for the all-star power forward.
According to sources, a trade that's been pondered in recent days featured Hawks forward Paul Millsap and collection of picks owned by Suns.
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) July 2, 2016
The Suns also have a loaded backcourt full of guards that could come in an immediately contribute for the Hawks. Millsap is essentially on the last year of his deal and may not return to Atlanta next summer in free agency. If the Hawks think they have a better chance of retaining Horford, they may decide to pull the trigger and trade Millsap. Millsap was the best player on the Hawks last year and will require quite a haul, but he is definitely on the block.
Atlanta had a busy day one of free agency and there is a lot more in store. Al Horford will reportedly make his decision this upcoming weekend. Keep your eyes pealed for the Hawks to make some major moves soon.