Veteran guard CJ McCollum is staying in Atlanta.
According to reports, McCollum has agreed to a one-year, $21 million contract extension with the Atlanta Hawks, keeping the veteran leader in Atlanta for at least one more season. The deal reportedly includes a 7.5% trade kicker and gives McCollum added security as he enters his 15th NBA season.
A Perfect Fit in Atlanta
After arriving in Atlanta during the 2025-26 season in the blockbuster trade that sent Trae Young to Washington, McCollum quickly became one of the Hawks’ most important players. His veteran presence, scoring ability, and leadership helped transform Atlanta into one of the Eastern Conference’s hottest teams during the second half of the season.
McCollum averaged nearly 19 points per game in 41 appearances with the Hawks and provided a steady hand for a roster filled with young talent. His ability to create offense, knock down three-pointers, and mentor younger players made him an invaluable addition.
Playoff Heroics Earned Him Another Contract
While McCollum’s regular-season contributions were impressive, his playoff performances may have ultimately sealed this new deal.
The 34-year-old guard delivered several clutch moments during Atlanta’s first-round playoff series against the New York Knicks, including multiple late-game shots that helped the Hawks steal victories against the eventual NBA champions. His postseason experience and composure under pressure gave Atlanta exactly what it needed in big moments.
For a franchise looking to take the next step in the Eastern Conference, retaining a proven veteran with McCollum’s résumé was a priority.
What This Means for the Hawks
The one-year structure of the deal gives Atlanta flexibility while still maintaining a competitive roster. With the Hawks continuing to build around a young core and holding multiple draft picks, McCollum’s leadership bridges the gap between the team’s present and future.
Rather than committing to a lengthy contract, Atlanta gets another season of high-level production from a respected veteran while preserving future salary cap options.
Looking Ahead
McCollum will turn 35 before the start of next season, but his game has aged well thanks to his elite shooting, basketball IQ, and professionalism. As the Hawks look to build on their 46-win campaign and return to the playoffs, having a steady veteran presence in the backcourt could be critical.
For Atlanta, this extension is about more than points and assists. It’s about leadership, stability, and maintaining a winning culture. CJ McCollum has already proven he can help elevate the Hawks, and now he’ll get another opportunity to do exactly that.
