Thomas Robinson reportedly agrees to non-guaranteed contract with Atlanta Hawks

The Atlanta Hawks currently have 15 guaranteed contracts on the books and, with both two-way slots filled in Jaylen Adams and Alex Poythress, there doesn’t appear to be much uncertainty with the 2018-2019 roster at this juncture. However, NBA teams can take as many as 20 players to training camp and, on Monday morning, Shams Charania of The Athletic indicated that veteran big man Thomas Robinson will be joining the Hawks on a non-guaranteed contract.

Monetary specifics are unknown at this point but, given the backdrop and roster situation, this appears to be a training camp deal. Robinson was selected with the No. 5 overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft but the former Kansas prospect has struggled to find footing in the NBA world. He was last seen on an NBA floor during the 2016-2017 season with the Lakers and, prior to that, Robinson spent time with the Kings (the team that drafted him), Rockets, Blazers, Sixers and Nets.

From a skill perspective, Robinson has always been an intriguing talent, particularly in the area of rebounding, where he excels. However, the 27-year-old has struggled to carve out a clear offensive role and, on the defensive end, Robinson has warts beyond his ability to end possessions on the glass.

Because the Hawks have 15 guaranteed contracts, it would be unlikely that Robinson (or any training camp invite) could make the team, as that would require Atlanta to trade (or waive) a player before the start of the season. While financial details aren’t available just yet, it would also make sense to give Robinson $50,000 or less in terms of guaranteed money, as anything more would not allow him to be assigned to Atlanta’s G League affiliate. Still, Robinson provides a sixth big man for training camp and, given his pedigree, it makes sense to take a closer look as September arrives.

Stay tuned.