Atlanta Hawks explore trade up in NBA Draft for Michigan's Aday Mara

The Atlanta Hawks are considering a move to trade up in the 2026 NBA Draft to acquire Aday Mara, a 7-foot-3 center from Michigan. Following the trade of Trae Young to the Washington Wizards earlier this year, the Hawks aim to enhance their young core, which includes Jalen Johnson, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and Onyeka Okongwu. With the eighth overall pick, the Hawks may attempt to secure the No. 5 pick to select Mara, who is rising in draft rankings. If they can't secure Mara, they are also looking at Yaxel Lendeborg, who has been working out for various teams including Atlanta. The Hawks’ draft strategy appears focused on bolstering their frontcourt.

• 3:15 PMYahoo Sports — 2 NEW Atlanta Hawks NBA Draft Rumors Emerge, Including a Trade Up For Michigan Star