top of page

2022 Free Agents - Kevin Huerter

Summary
At 38% from three, Huerter is above-average but not elite. However, he doesn't get the easiest of looks, even while playing next to one of the best passers in the league in Trae Young. He has the some real off-the-dribble ability, as he has been assisted on above 62% his makes, which is below average for a wing. The Hawks have often asked him to be a backup point guard of sorts, and he while he's not known for being a great passer he does have some solid assist metrics.

Defensively, he's not great but probably better than his reputation, as he at least has some size and gives good effort on that end. Huerter had some big playoff moments in 2021, including a 27-point performance in the Hawks' game 7 wing against the 76ers.

Huerter is still only 23, so there's reason to be high on him and his development over his next contract. If he can become an elite shooter like Kyle Korver was or Duncan Robinson currently is, he could take a real leap into a top-50 level player. Luke Kennard got 4-years, $56 million, so I would be demanding more than that if I were Huerter and his agent. Huerter could be hurt by the restricted free agent market, since not many teams will have cap space, but I would expect him and the Hawks to be able to come to a reasonable deal, even though it could push the Hawks into the luxury tax.
 
Cap Considerations
Huerter will be a restricted free agent with a $12.8 million cap hold and full Bird rights. Based on last season, Huerter is on pace to meet the starter criteria, which would make Huerter's Qualifying Offer $7.9 million, but if the Hawks are more healthy this season, Huerter could fail to meet the starter criteria, and thus his Qualifying Offer would only be $6.1 million. I wouldn't expect Huerter's QO to come into play, but I wouldn't completely rule it out as I could see a scenario where his market is dry as a restricted free agent and the Hawks play some hardball given their luxury tax concerns.

From other teams, Huerter will be looking for a 4-year, $80+ million offer, and it would likely take something near that in order for Atlanta to not match. In addition, adding a 15% trade bonus, a player option, and some advances on his salary could make it more difficult for Atlanta to match.

Potential Teams: Hawks, Grizzlies, Pelicans, Spurs, Timberwolves

Predicted Contract: 4-year, $64 million with the Hawks

Actual Contract: 4-year, $65 million with the Hawks

Huerter ended up signing an extension prior to the start of the season, at a very similar value to what I projected.

Last updated: 10/19/2021

bottom of page