Photo: Dallas Mavericks/X

The Atlanta Hawks have at least done preliminary due diligence on Anthony Davis, but there has been little traction coming out of those conversations, according to league observers.

Any interest has remained exploratory, with no real signs that discussions are progressing toward something tangible.

Around the league, there is a growing belief that Atlanta’s front office is more inclined to pursue a cost-controlled or lower-salary option rather than swinging for a high-priced star.

If the Hawks end up structuring a deal around Kristaps Porzingis and his expiring contract, the expectation is that the return would focus on depth and flexibility rather than a singular marquee name.

One hypothetical scenario floated by league personnel involved Atlanta looking at a package similar in profile to Nikola Vucevic and Coby White from the Chicago Bulls.

That idea was presented strictly as an illustrative example, not as evidence of actual negotiations between the teams.

The broader takeaway is that moves of that nature, involving multiple useful pieces rather than a superstar acquisition, are viewed as far more aligned with Atlanta’s current direction than a pursuit of someone like Davis.