When the Hawks acquired the number 17 pick in the draft from the Brooklyn Nets, it foreshadowed that a much bigger move could be coming. Jonathan Givony of ESPN confirmed that notion today, stating Atlanta is actively trying to move into the top five. They attempted to swap picks with the Knicks but were turned away. Now their focus is on the Pelicans with the 4th pick.
Source: The Atlanta Hawks have been aggressive exploring trades packaging the No. 8 and 10 picks to move up in the draft. Their offer to the Knicks for the No. 3 pick was apparently rebuffed. The Pelicans are considering the possibility of trading the No. 4 pick for 8+10.
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) June 18, 2019
Giving up picks eight and ten to move up to three makes sense. This is widely considered a top-heavy, three-man draft, and RJ Barrett would fit nicely next to Trae Young. However, that opportunity went down the drain once Anthony Davis was traded to the Lakers and Kevin Durant was lost for next season. After the top three, there is a lot of disparity between who is the next best player. The Hawks seem to be zeroing in on their guy and have been rumored to be interested in trading up for Jarrett Culver. Whatever the deal may be, it most likely will not be announced until the pick is made.
One thing is for sure: Thursday is going to be an eventful day for the Hawks and their fans. Stay tuned to SportsTalkATL for constant updates from the GM and the new draft picks on Thursday.