After mutually agreeing to separate from Landry Fields, the Atlanta Hawks have elevated Onsi Saleh to general manager. This decision comes on the heels of a disappointing 40-42 campaign. The season concluded with a first-round loss to the Miami Heat in the NBA Play-In Tournament. Now, Saleh is in charge of all day-to-day basketball operations. The Hawks are looking to recalibrate their franchise fortunes and continue upon their most successful recent draft history.
Onsi Saleh was hired by the Atlanta Hawks in May of 2024. His background includes the unique experience he gained as vice president of basketball strategy and team counsel with the Golden State Warriors. In his three years with the Warriors, Saleh had a lasting effect on team culture and strategies. His contributions were among the most important, helping the team to a historic competitive edge. His deep history with the game’s operations makes him the ideal person to steer the Hawks in a new direction going forward.
Earlier this month the Hawks started a search for a new president of basketball operations, showing their interest in shoring up their front office. Saleh will team with principal owner Tony Ressler and the deep bench of talent already at work on the new team’s efforts.
Landry Fields—a one-time assistant GM—was elevated to the full-time role in June 2022. He could do the same after his current tenure with the Hawks, which is at an overall record of 117-129. Fields had previously spent five years in the San Antonio Spurs’ front office, but the Hawks decided it was time for a change after this season’s lackluster performance.
Tony Ressler publicly acknowledged Fields’ contributions to the organization, stating, “I would genuinely like to thank Landry for his leadership during his time with us. Landry made our franchise better and left contributions that have positioned us for growth.” In addition to thanking Fields for his commitment, Fridman wished him the best of luck in his future endeavors.
When the Hawks traded for Trae Young during the 2018 NBA Draft, it was a risky but bold choice. They chose guard Zaccharie Risacher with the No. 1 overall pick. It’s an important decision that shows the team is serious about laying the groundwork for winning seasons ahead. As Saleh steps into his new role, he faces the challenge of integrating new talent and enhancing team performance to meet fan expectations.
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