In a surprising move ahead of Thursday's NBA draft, the Atlanta Hawks have reportedly traded forward AJ Griffin to the Houston Rockets in exchange for the 44th pick, according to sources close to the matter, including ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

Griffin, a 20-year-old talent who was a first-round pick out of Duke University in the 2022 draft, has spent two seasons with the Hawks. In his time with the team, he has averaged 7.5 points and 1.9 rebounds per game.

The trade is seen as a strategic move by the Hawks, who are looking to potentially acquire new talent and strengthen their roster. The 44th pick will provide them with an opportunity to add fresh blood and potential young stars to their team.

Meanwhile, in other trade news leading up to the draft's second round, the Minnesota Timberwolves have reportedly traded guard Wendell Moore Jr. along with the 37th pick to the Detroit Pistons. In exchange, the Timberwolves will receive the 53rd selection, according to sources confirmed by ESPN.

This trade presents an opportunity for both teams to make strategic moves and potentially enhance their rosters. The Pistons will have a higher pick, allowing them to potentially select a player who fits their long-term plans. The Timberwolves, on the other hand, will gain a later pick but still have a chance to add to their squad.

Additionally, the Oklahoma City Thunder have made a trade with the Golden State Warriors, sending Lindy Waters to the Warriors in exchange for the 52nd pick, sources confirmed to ESPN. Waters, known for his limited playing time last season, will have a chance for a fresh start with the Warriors.

With the NBA draft on the horizon, teams across the league are making calculated moves to strengthen their lineups. The trades made by the Atlanta Hawks, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Oklahoma City Thunder all serve to improve their respective positions in this year's draft and potentially bring about positive changes to their teams in the future.

As the draft continues, basketball fans eagerly await the announcement of new team additions and the potential impact they can have on the upcoming season.