NBA Trade Deadline: 5 Stars Hawks Should Target by Using Kristaps Porzingis’ $30.7M Expiring Contract 

Kristaps Porzingis' contract is expected to be gauged in the trade market before the deadline as the Atlanta Hawks look to upgrade their roster. Porzingis has an expiring deal worth $30.7 million, making him a prime trade chip for the Hawks.

According to NBA insider Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, Porzingis' contract is seen as an asset that the Hawks could flip for a better player this season, especially if a reasonable upgrade becomes available before the trade deadline.

With the uncertainty of his future with the Hawks, Porzingis is a name to watch before the trade deadline. Here are five potential stars that the Hawks could target in exchange for the sharpshooting big.

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5 Stars Hawks Should Target by Using Kristaps Porzingis’ $30.7M Expiring Contract

1). Jonathan Kuminga

Trading for Golden State Warriors' Jonathan Kuminga would immediately raise the team's current and future ceiling as he fits in the roster's timeline.

Kuminga would provide self-creation on offense and boost the team's two-way potential and versatility, something that Porzingis could be limited in.

Kuminga could also see Atlanta as a fresh start for his career as he has been benched multiple times this season in Golden State.

2.) Domantas Sabonis

A swap for the Sacramento Kings' Domantas Sabonis would be a massive upgrade for the Hawks, as it provides them with a veteran All-Star who can be paired with their stars Trae Young and Jalen Johnson.

Sabonis would be the star the Hawks crave inside the paint. Such a move should also improve the team's rebounding and inside presence.

3.) Nic Claxton

Nic Claxton has long been a target for multiple contending teams for his defensive prowess. Dealing Porzingis for him with the Brooklyn Nets would allow the Hawks to retain their defensive identity and create a formidable defensive big rotation alongside Onyeka Okongwu.

4.) Lauri Markannen

Trading for Lauri Markannen would be a win-now move for the Hawks. Porzingis could be the piece that would finally trigger the Utah Jazz to give up the former All-Star, who is seen to be one of the league's most coveted players for budding contenders.

Markannen would replace Porzingis and add more offensive versatility for the squad. He would also build a dynamic wing connection with Jalen Johnson, who has broken out into a star this season.

5.) Giannis Antetokounmpo

Giannis Antetokounmpo would be a reach for the Hawks, but a necessary try for the franchise looking to break through in the Eastern Conference. Adding Giannis in the squad would immediately propel the Hawks to contendership, so trying to dump Porzingis to such a deal would be necessary.

It goes without saying that Giannis would be the dream star for the Hawks to replace Porzingis this season.

Edited by Rob Andrew Lo