With All-Stars Jimmy Butler and Paul George in trade rumors and uncertainty clouding teams like the Cavaliers and Clippers, there are many unknowns heading into Thursday’s NBA draft and the start of free agency July 1.

But Hawks swingman Kent Bazemore wants to put the NBA on notice and let all unhappy players know that they can have a home in Atlanta if they want one.

Bazemore, who had an underwhelming season after a breakout campaign in 2015-16, is now the highest paid player on the Hawks after the Dwight Howard trade on Tuesday night. Paul Millsap could take that title back, but Atlanta isn't expected to match the possible max offers he receives from other teams.

Fans had mixed reactions to Bazemore’s personal form of recruiting.

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Former Atlanta Journal-Constitution reporter Norman Arey died Oct. 11, 2025 at the age of 84. In addition to sports writing, Arey also co-wrote the popular "Peach Buzz" society column. (Courtesy of the Arey family)

Credit: Courtesy of the Arey family

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Members of the conversion crew take a break as the main scoreboard is lowered to the floor to be worked on as the arena gets ready for the next concert at State Farm Arena, Thursday, October 2, 2025, in Atlanta. The crew was working on creating a stage for the Friday, Oct. 3 Maxwell concert. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason Getz / Jason.Getz@ajc.com