Dyson Daniels, the All-Defensive guard for the Atlanta Hawks, has secured a four-year contract extension worth $100 million. This agreement was confirmed by his agent, Daniel Moldovan of Lighthouse Sports Management, in a report by ESPN. The extension marks a significant commitment by the Hawks to retain a player who has quickly established himself as a defensive powerhouse in the league.
Last season, Daniels earned the title of the NBA’s Most Improved Player and finished as the runner-up for the Defensive Player of the Year. He made the first team All-Defense and recorded 229 steals, the highest number in a season since Gary Payton achieved this feat in the 1995-96 season. His exceptional performance has not only elevated his status but also contributed significantly to the Hawks’ defensive strategies.
As the eighth overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, Daniels showed remarkable growth during the 2023-24 season. He averaged 14.1 points, significantly up from 5.8 points the previous season, along with 5.9 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 3 steals per game. This achievement made him the first player to average three steals in a season since Alvin Robertson in 1990-91.
The Hawks acquired Daniels from the New Orleans Pelicans in July 2024, trading Dejounte Murray and a first-round pick in the process. This strategic move has paid off, as Daniels has formed a strong partnership with star point guard Trae Young. Together, they have been instrumental in enhancing the team’s overall performance and competitiveness.
Building a Future in Atlanta
Daniels’ extension highlights his importance as a cornerstone player for the Hawks, who are also developing young talents like Jalen Johnson and Zaccharie Risacher, the No. 1 pick in 2024. The franchise is clearly focusing on building a robust roster that combines experienced players with promising newcomers.
This contract extension not only solidifies Daniels’ role within the team but also reflects the Hawks’ long-term vision for success. As the team continues to develop under this strategy, fans can expect to see a competitive Atlanta Hawks squad in the upcoming seasons, driven by a blend of defensive prowess and offensive skill.
