The Atlanta Hawks have officially signed guard Dyson Daniels to a four-year, $100 million rookie scale extension, as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania. Notably, the contract does not include any team or player options, according to The Athletic’s Fred Katz.
Dyson Daniels, who was drafted eighth overall in 2022, began his NBA career with the New Orleans Pelicans but truly flourished after being traded to Atlanta in the significant trade involving Dejounte Murray prior to last season. Since joining the Hawks, Daniels has become a vital player on the team, recognized for his outstanding skills as a perimeter defender.
His performance last season was remarkable; he was honored as the NBA’s Most Improved Player and was a runner-up for the Defensive Player of the Year award. Additionally, he earned a spot on the first team All-Defense, finishing the season with 229 steals—marking the highest total in a single season since Gary Payton achieved the feat in 1995/96.
Throughout the season, Daniels averaged 14.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 3.0 steals across 33.8 minutes per game, while making 76 starts. He also achieved a career-best shooting percentage of 49.3% from the field and 34.1% from three-point range.
Daniels is now the ninth player from the 2022 draft class to sign or agree to a rookie scale extension set to start in 2026/27. He joins the ranks of several notable players, including Christian Braun, Paolo Banchero, and Chet Holmgren. His contract will provide an annual average value of $25 million, aligning with Braun’s recent deal with the Denver Nuggets, although Braun’s contract includes an additional fifth year.
The backcourt duo of Daniels and Trae Young has shown promise for the Hawks, but the future of this partnership remains uncertain. Young has a player option worth nearly $49 million for the 2026/27 season and could explore free agency next summer, with current indications suggesting that an extension is not on the immediate horizon.
Overall, the Hawks’ commitment to Daniels reflects their confidence in his abilities and potential to lead the team in the years to come. This extension not only secures an up-and-coming talent but also leaves fans optimistic about the direction of the franchise.