Atlanta Hawks promote Edmonton’s Onsi Saleh to general manager

The Atlanta Hawks made a significant change to their front office by promoting Onsi Saleh from Edmonton to the role of general manager. This decision came after the team decided to part ways with Landry Fields, who served as the GM for three seasons but failed to lead the team to the playoffs in the last two years.

The Hawks also revealed that they are on the lookout for a new president of basketball operations. After finishing the season with a 40-42 record and missing the playoffs following a 0-2 performance in the play-in tournament, the team is looking to restructure and improve their organization.

Hawks principal owner Tony Ressler emphasized the importance of making strategic decisions and enhancements to the team during this pivotal off-season. He expressed the need to bring in a seasoned leader to work alongside Saleh in providing direction and structure to the organization.

Fields played a key role in the Hawks’ decision-making process last year when they drafted Zaccharie Risacher with the No. 1 pick. Risacher has emerged as a strong contender for the rookie of the year award this season. With All-Star guard Trae Young and rising star Dyson Daniels on their roster, the Hawks have a promising foundation to build upon.

Saleh’s background includes stints with successful NBA franchises like the Golden State Warriors and the San Antonio Spurs. Prior to joining the Hawks, Saleh held positions as the vice president of basketball strategy and team counsel with the Warriors, as well as the director of strategy and process with the Spurs. His academic credentials include a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences and a post-graduate degree in history from the University of Alberta, as well as a Doctor of Law from Tulane University Law School.

Reflecting on his journey to the NBA, Saleh expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work in the league, stating, “A kid from a little town in Canada, and my dream was to be associated with the NBA in some way. It’s really been surreal.”

The Hawks have struggled to advance in the playoffs since their Eastern Conference finals appearance in 2021. With Saleh at the helm as the new general manager and the search for a president of basketball operations underway, the team is looking to make strategic moves to elevate their performance in the upcoming seasons.