The Atlanta Hawks have undoubtedly been one of the busiest teams in the NBA this offseason.
First of all, Clint Capela, Caris LeVert, Larry Nance Jr, and several more players departed in free agency.
The Hawks signed both Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Luke Kennard and traded for Kristaps Porzingis from the Boston Celtics.
They have now confirmed the signing of a former Orlando Magic player who excels at three-point shooting.
Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty ImagesAtlanta Hawks confirm Caleb Houstan signing from Orlando Magic
Caleb Houstan initially struggled to find a new team after the Magic surprisingly released him at the end of the 2024/25 season.
The Hawks were then heavily linked with a move for the small forward, but the deal was not announced until Tuesday, August 19.
Houstan will find it difficult to make head coach Quin Snyder’s rotation next season, but one attribute sets him apart.
The 22-year-old shot 40 percent from three with the Magic last season, making him the best long-range shooter on their roster.
Especially if he plays alongside Trae Young, a master at creating opportunities for others, he could be a valuable bench scorer.
Atlanta Hawks and Orlando Magic fans react to Caleb Houstan deal
The reaction on social media to Houstan’s deal sums up the impact he could have on the Eastern Conference-contending Hawks next season.
An Atlanta fan wrote: “This is a great pick up for Atlanta. Caleb is a 6’7 good shooter and good defender who works super hard, and he’s like 22. Caleb will be able to grow well with Quinn Snyder and Trae Young.”
Another posted: “He is a shooter fasho, just need him to do it consistently, but him and Kennard off the bench both of them can spray that [ball].”
Meanwhile, Orlando Magic fans are generally disappointed to see Houstan leave and wish him well in Atlanta.
“Promise he’s gonna have the highest work ethic on the entire roster,” one commented. “Ask his teammates halfway through the season. Hope he gets minutes.”
Two more responses read: “I miss him already! You all better treat him right,” and “Take good care of him.”