Trae Young made it clear this offseason that he wanted Luke Kennard and Nickeil Alexander-Walker on his side for the upcoming NBA campaign. Both guards officially joined the Atlanta Hawks last week after personal conversations with the All-Star point guard helped seal the deals.
Speaking about the recruitment process, Young shared that he has known both Kennard and Alexander-Walker “for years” through their time around the league. He personally reached out by phone to let them know he believed they could elevate the Hawks’ backcourt and contribute to a stronger playoff push.
Kennard, one of the league’s most reliable shooters, signed a one-year, $11 million contract with Atlanta on July 8. The 29-year-old guard is coming off a season with Memphis where he shot 43.3% from three and averaged 8.9 points in 22.6 minutes per game. His career 43.8% three-point accuracy ranks among the NBA’s best.
On July 6, Atlanta also completed a sign-and-trade to acquire Alexander-Walker from Minnesota. The deal sent a 2027 second-round pick and cash considerations to the Timberwolves, while Alexander-Walker agreed to a four-year, $62 million contract. The 26-year-old guard is coming off a career-high 9.4 points per game in 2024–25 while appearing in all 82 games.
“I talked to both of them on the phone,” Young said when asked about the offseason additions. “Obviously, they both had options, but I wanted them on my team, and I know they would make our team better. We were able to talk and make it happen.”
Kennard brings an elite perimeter shooting threat to Atlanta’s offense, while Alexander-Walker adds defensive versatility and depth. Both guards figure to play significant roles in head coach Quin Snyder’s rotation next season as the Hawks aim to return to playoff contention.
