European prospect Lucas Nogueira plans to join Hawks next season

In addition to the return of center Al Horford, the Atlanta Hawks may also be joined in the ranks by Lucas Nogueria, who has spent the past few seasons in Europe.

As per a report from Encestando, a Spanish publication, Nogueira will forgo the last season of his contract with Estudiantes, and look to join the Hawks next season.

His contract has a $600, 000 buyout which could be paid in full by the Hawks (as per Larry Coon's indispensable CBA FAQ.)

The 21-year-old Nogueira stands at 7-feet projects as a future center. At the moment, the Hawks boast a surplus of centers between Horford, Pero Antic and Gustavo Ayon. The possibility always remains for the Hawks to use Nogueira, or any other center, in a trade.

The Hawks selected Nogueira with the 16th pick in the 2013 NBA draft. Last season, Nogueira averaged 6.7 points and 4.3 rebounds in 16.5 minutes per game.