Hawks land Porzingis in three-team trade, offer sheet for NFaly Dante

The Atlanta Hawks reinforced their frontcourt by acquiring Kristaps Porzingis in a summer three-team trade, a move designed to pair a perimeter-threatening, pick-and-pop big with Trae Young while addressing potential durability concerns by adding a developing insurance option behind Porzingis. Concurrently, Atlanta reached for depth on the wings and frontcourt by agreeing to a two-year, 4.5 million offer sheet with NFaly Dante, a Rockets two-way player who spent most of last season in the G League. Because Dante is a restricted free agent, Houston can choose to match the Hawks’ offer or allow him to sign with Atlanta. The development signals a cautious, long view for the Hawks as they contending window broadens with Porzingis in the mix.

Porzingis’ acquisition gives Atlanta a versatile frontcourt option who can stretch the floor and provide rim protection, potentially easing the burden on Young in late-clock situations. However, Porzingis has battled injury issues in recent seasons, casting a shadow over the risk-reward calculus of the deal. Dante’s appearance in the G League, where he posted strong numbers—nearly 15 points, 9.8 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per game—plus his...