Хоукс подписали Джока Лэндейла как ключевое усиление состава

The Atlanta Hawks have strategically utilized almost the entirety of their $15 million non-taxpayer mid-level exception to re-sign center Jock Landale, offering a competitive salary for a top backup role that shines a light on current market trends. According to basketball analyst Yossi Gozlan, this deal—along with Robert Williams' contract with Portland—carves a precedent for top backup centers in the $14 million-$15 million annual range. Landale's new contract suggests he will serve as the Hawks' secondary center, providing support behind Onyeka Okongwu. Brad Rowland from Locked on Hawks elaborates that the market had significant interest in Landale, noting prospective offers exceeding the biannual exception from teams such as the Bulls, Lakers, Clippers, Sixers, and Cavaliers. Initially signing with Memphis as a free agent, Landale experienced an eventful season with trades sending him first to Utah as part of the Jaren Jackson Jr. deal, and then to Atlanta. During his 23 games in the regular season with the Hawks, Landale delivered promising performances, averaging 9.1 points and 4.1 rebounds with high efficiency shooting—51.6% from the field and an impressive 39.1% from beyond the arc. Unfortunately, a high right ankle sprain sidelined him before the playoffs against New York. Landale's addition signals Atlanta's commitment to bolstering their lineup but places them within $11.7 million of the luxury tax threshold. This proximity could pose challenges, particularly in retaining forward Jonathan Kuminga, as the Hawks recently declined his $24.3 million option for the coming season, potentially forcing difficult financial decisions ahead.