Rumor: Hawks’ Kobe Bufkin viewed as untouchable in trade discussions
Atlanta Hawks rookie Kobe Bufkin is reportedly viewed as untouchable in trade discussions ahead of the deadline on Feb. 8, according to John Hollinger of The Atheltic.
The Hawks have been active in trade talks and are reportedly ready to trade Dejounte Murray. They have been engaged with several teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers, on his availability and appear to be set on moving the All-Star guard.
As the Hawks appear open for business, the team isn’t expected to include cornerstone Trae Young, Jalen Johnson or Bufkin in any potential trade conversations.
Johnson is a rising force who is still under a team-friendly rookie contract for another season and is the other obvious keeper. After that, everything should be on the table, and league sources say that is indeed the case. (My spies say the Hawks also have described rookie guard Kobe Bufkin as untouchable, but would they walk away from a deal over him?)
The Hawks selected Bufkin with the 15th pick last year after a strong freshman campaign at Michigan. Hawks head coach Quin Snyder has praised his ability to score and run the offense, traits that were displayed in the preseason.
The organization previously rejected a trade proposal that included Bufkin before the season when it was involved in discussions for Toronto forward Pascal Siakam. Snyder is high on his potential and fought for him to stay on the roster.
Bufkin has mostly played in the G League this season after making just two appearances with the Hawks. He is averaging 25.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, 5.2 assists, 1.2 steals and one block on 42% shooting from the field in six games with the Skyhawks.
The Hawks are among the teams that should be active before the deadline next month. Plenty of changes could come, but Bufkin should be among the players that remain on the roster.
