What happened: CJ McCollum has agreed to a one-year, $21 million contract extension with the Atlanta Hawks that includes a trade kicker. The deal keeps the veteran guard in Atlanta rather than letting him reach free agency.
Why it matters: The extension reflects a path available to only a small group of players who can re-sign before hitting the open market. For the Hawks, it secures backcourt continuity heading into the 2026-27 season after McCollum closed the year on a 19-4 run as a starter.
By the numbers: McCollum has never reached free agency, signing four extensions across his career. The new agreement is a one-year, $21 million deal with a trade kicker.
What to watch: Watch how Atlanta rounds out its roster around McCollum and whether the trade kicker shapes any future moves.