The Atlanta Hawks are not waiting around for draft night drama. They are reportedly keeping veteran guard C.J. McCollum on a short-term deal and bringing in wing Aaron Wiggins from the Oklahoma City Thunder. The combo move locks in a proven scorer, adds a versatile rotation piece on the wing, and quietly reshapes Atlanta’s bench just days before the NBA Draft.
According to ESPN, McCollum has agreed to a one-year, $21 million extension that includes a trade kicker, agent Sam Goldfeder told the network. McCollum was eligible to sign an extension through June 30, and this reported agreement keeps him away from the open market right as teams gear up for the draft. The setup keeps Atlanta’s veteran scoring punch intact without tying up long-term money.
Local outlet WSB‑TV reports that the Hawks are acquiring Oklahoma City guard Aaron Wiggins in exchange for two future second round picks, Atlanta’s 2030 selection and the less favorable of the Hawks’ or Lakers’ 2032 pick, and notes the team has not yet issued an official announcement. Those same reports credit McCollum with about 18.7 points, 4.1 assists and 3.1 rebounds in his time with Atlanta this season. WSB‑TV also adds that general manager Onsi Saleh is scheduled for a pre draft media availability on Monday.
What Wiggins Brings
A 2021 second round pick out of Maryland, Aaron Wiggins gives Atlanta more length on the perimeter, defensive help on the wing and occasional scoring pop off the bench, the same ingredients that helped Oklahoma City during its recent playoff runs. Career averages sit at roughly 8.7 points and 3.2 rebounds per game, according to StatMuse, and he was part of the Thunder’s 2025 title team as chronicled by the league. The Hawks can reasonably slot him in as a flexible two way option to spell starters and handle bigger wing matchups.
Cap and roster context
On the books, this is a short term, cap friendly maneuver that turns distant draft assets into immediate rotation help. Atlanta reportedly absorbed Wiggins’ salary using a traded player exception created earlier this year when Luke Kennard was moved, a deal ESPN said generated roughly an $11 million exception. Shipping out two far off second rounders gives Oklahoma City more draft currency while Atlanta boosts its depth without touching core pieces.
What’s next
Saleh’s pre draft availability should offer a better read on whether Atlanta considers this a finished pre draft remodel or simply the opening act for a busier week. For now, the moves point clearly toward short term competitiveness. With McCollum staying put and Wiggins on the way in, the Hawks hit draft week with more immediate backcourt and wing options while keeping room to maneuver later in the summer. Fans can reasonably look for the front office to use the draft and the start of free agency to fine tune the bench and address any remaining size concerns.
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