Hawks Must Cut Two Players Before Season Starts

The Atlanta Hawks face a tough decision on the roster, as they currently have 17 players on standard contracts but can only have 15 active roster members. Time is of the essence, as the team must address this issue before the season kicks off. One player at the top of the list for potential removal is Buddy Hield, who is owed $9.6 million for the season.

Hield's role on the backcourt is not expected to be significant due to the addition of Lu Dort and Aaron Wiggins. The team could waive Hield, but with the salary already below the luxury tax line, there is little financial incentive for such a move. A trade would be a more favorable outcome for both the Hawks and Hield, as it would clear a roster spot while providing some compensation.

Devin Carter, another player with an impending trade deadline, could also be moved to create space on the team. Carter was acquired from Sacramento earlier in the offseason, along with a second-round pick, and the Hawks could potentially trade him again. Non-guaranteed deals for Mouhamed Gueye and Ryan Nembhard provide straightforward options for cuts, but Nembhard's contract prevents any trades until September 19.

While there are options available, the prospect of trimming the roster down from 17 to 15 players is far from thrilling.