Report: Nick Young contacted by Atlanta Hawks

The Atlanta Hawks have lurked in the shadows, at least relatively, in the early part of the NBA’s free agency period, but as the days go by, there are more and more story lines to follow. In the latest rumbling, the Hawks have reportedly contacted former Los Angeles Lakers and free agent shooting guard Nick Young at some point during the process.

Dave McMenamin of ESPN Los Angeles brought this brief report concerning Young and the Hawks:

"Nick Young heard from Atlanta along with the Lakers, as well as “several other teams registering interest,” according to his agent, Mark Bartelstein."

The 29-year-old Young had easily the best season of his seven year career in 2013-2014, as the infamous “gunner” averaged 17.9 points per game on 43.5% shooting from the field and 38.6% from long range. On one hand, Young’s shooting ability and size (6-foot-7) would seemingly be a solid fit with the Hawks, but his interesting off-court persona and lack of defensive acumen could slow down any theoretical pursuit.

In addition to reportedly contacting Young, the Hawks have also been linked to another former Lakers guard in Kent Bazemore, and the rumor mill continues to churn surrounding Luol Deng and the combination of big men in Pau Gasol and Greg Monroe. Stay tuned to ATL All Day as things unfold, but it would be at least a mild surprise if Danny Ferry and company were in hot pursuit of a player like Nick Young.