Photo: Peter Baba

Could the Atlanta Hawks emerge as a surprise contender in the sweepstakes for Giannis Antetokounmpo? According to Michael Cunningham of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the answer should be a resounding yes.

Cunningham argues that the Hawks are in a position where they should seriously consider making a bold, all-in move to acquire the two-time MVP, even if it means parting with some of their most valuable assets.

Cunningham suggests that Atlanta has the potential to assemble a compelling trade package for the Milwaukee Bucks – one that could rival or surpass offers from other interested teams.

In his view, the Hawks should be prepared to include two of their three top players: franchise point guard Trae Young, rising star forward Jalen Johnson, and promising young guard Dyson Daniels.

While all three are important pieces of Atlanta’s current roster, sacrificing two could be justifiable if it means landing a generational talent like Antetokounmpo.

In addition to established talent, Cunningham notes that the Hawks also hold considerable draft capital.

Atlanta owns the No. 13 and No. 22 overall picks in this year’s draft and could potentially sweeten the deal by offering up to three additional first-round picks stretching through the 2032 draft.

That kind of package – consisting of young talent, proven stars, and significant future picks – could be enough to draw Milwaukee’s attention, especially if the Bucks decide to pivot toward a rebuild.

While such a blockbuster trade would represent a major gamble, Cunningham believes the upside is too significant for the Hawks to ignore.

In a crowded and competitive Eastern Conference, adding a player of Antetokounmpo’s caliber could instantly transform Atlanta into a legitimate title contender.