According to ESPN's Shams Charania on Monday, the Atlanta Hawks plan to trade Kobe Buffkin to the Brooklyn Nets. After this transaction, the Hawks are expected to receive approximately $110,000 in cash returns and a trade exception worth $4.5 million.

Kobe Buffkin, 21, primarily plays guard and was selected by the Atlanta Hawks with the 15th pick in the first round of the 2023 draft. Injuries have limited him to just 27 appearances for the Hawks, averaging 5.0 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 1.6 assists in 11.9 minutes per game, while competing for playing time with guards like Daeshon Daniels, Alexander-Walker, and Luke Kennard.

The trade is widely viewed as a win-win for all parties. Buffkin's departure will free up roster space for the Hawks, allowing them to fully utilize the prime years of star player Trae Young. Last season, the Hawks finished ninth in the Eastern Conference with a 40-42 record, missing the playoffs for the second consecutive year.

For the rebuilding Nets, accepting Bafkin is a low-risk option. Bafkin will have more playing opportunities in the Nets, which will help him further develop his career.