Report: Hawks open Collins trade talks amid interest from Suns, others

The Atlanta Hawks have opened preliminary trade discussions about forward John Collins, with the Phoenix Suns amid the teams showing interest in the 25-year-old, sources told The Atheltic's Shams Charania.

However, the Suns are reluctant to take on Collins' contract, adds Charania. The Hawks forward is in the second year of a five-year, $125-million deal.

The six-year veteran is averaging 12.6 points per game this campaign, his lowest output since his 2017-18 rookie season.

Phoenix has also expressed interest in other wings, including Sacramento Kings veteran Harrison Barnes, Washington Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma, and Houston Rockets wing KJ Martin, per Charania.

The Suns lost starting forward Cam Johnson for one-to-two months due to a meniscus injury. Phoenix offered the 26-year-old a four-year, $66-million rookie extension before the regular season, according to Charania. The two parties couldn't agree to a contract, making Johnson a restricted free agent next offseason.

Phoenix has a 9-5 record, good for second in the Western Conference. The Suns take on the Utah Jazz on Friday. Tipoff is scheduled for 9 p.m. ET.