The Atlanta Hawks announced a long‑term extension for Onsi Saleh, promoting him from general manager to President of Basketball Operations. The move comes just months after Saleh assumed the GM role in April 2025 and set about reshaping the roster with a series of high‑profile transactions.
A Calculated Trade That Redefined the Roster
The centerpiece of Saleh’s overhaul was a blockbuster trade that sent star point guard Trae Young to the Washington Wizards in exchange for veteran scorer CJ McCollum and versatile forward Corey Kispert. The deal instantly altered the team’s offensive dynamics and signaled a shift toward a more balanced, wing‑heavy approach.
The ripple effects of that trade were immediate. The Hawks surged to a 27‑15 record, highlighted by an 11‑game winning streak that propelled them into playoff contention. Their new-look lineup proved especially potent against Eastern Conference powerhouses, making them the sole Eastern team to capture victories over the New York Knicks during the postseason.
Recognition in the Executive Arena
Saleh’s aggressive yet measured maneuvers did not go unnoticed by the basketball community. He finished second in the NBA Executive of the Year voting, trailing only Boston Celtics president Brad Stevens. The accolade underscored the impact of his first full season in the front office.
Beyond the win‑loss column, the transaction illustrated Saleh’s willingness to leverage draft assets and veteran talent to accelerate the franchise’s rebuild. By pairing McCollum’s scoring prowess with Kispert’s defensive versatility, the Hawks cultivated a more adaptable roster capable of competing against both elite and mid‑tier opponents.
The organization’s momentum now hinges on sustaining this upward trajectory. With Saleh at the helm of basketball operations, the front office is poised to continue fine‑tuning the roster, exploring free‑agency opportunities, and nurturing the team’s developing talent.