After more than seven seasons with the Atlanta Hawks, Trae Young and the team are preparing to part ways. This move is mutual, with Young’s agent actively seeking the best trade options for both Young and the Hawks. The key hurdle lies in finding a trade deal that actually makes sense.
League insiders have noted to NBC Sports that there isn’t much demand for Young right now. Despite being a 27-year-old in his prime, averaging 25.2 points and 9.8 assists per game, teams are hesitant. The scarcity of quality point guards and a lack of teams needing one is a factor (for example, the Spurs once showed interest but now have De’Aaron Fox and Dylan Harper). Concerns about Young’s ongoing defensive struggles, his ball-heavy style impacting team dynamics, and the ceiling this puts on team success are also issues. Additionally, Young’s hefty salary ($45.9 million this season and $48.9 million with a player option next year, along with his desire for an extension) makes teams wary of luxury tax implications.
So, who might be interested? Here’s a look at three potential destinations for Young:
Washington Wizards
The Wizards are the leading contender for Young’s trade. Initially reported by NBA insider Mark Stein, Washington features a promising young roster. Center Alex Sarr is a strong defender with three-point shooting ability. Tre Johnson and Kishawn George add wing scoring, while Bilal Coulibaly shows two-way promise. Adding Young could instantly make the Wizards competitive after years of playoff struggles.
While this trade may slow the Wizards’ player development, it provides a quick path back to the postseason. The proposed trade would bring Young to Washington, with Atlanta receiving key players like CJ McCollum (an 18.6 points per game veteran with an expiring $30.6 million contract) and Corey Kispert, a solid wing shooter who might be a tough loss.
Draft picks could also be involved. Washington controls Oklahoma City’s 2026 first-round pick, which could be sent to Atlanta as part of the deal, giving the Hawks valuable future assets.
Minnesota Timberwolves
There’s skepticism about this trade’s logic. The Timberwolves might consider Young to bolster their point guard and shooting needs as Mike Conley ages. Pairing Young with Anthony Edwards could create a dynamic offense, and Rudy Gobert might cover some defensive gaps.
However, the cost could be high, with Minnesota potentially trading Naz Reid, Donte DiVincenzo, Mike Conley, and minimum contract players to Atlanta. This would diminish Minnesota’s depth, which has made them competitive; the team is currently in sixth place in the West.
This trade might be unrealistic, as it could disrupt a solid rotation rather than improve the team, making it an unlikely move.
Milwaukee Bucks
Milwaukee is in a purchasing mode at the trade deadline, aiming to boost their roster around Giannis Antetokounmpo. They need more scoring and shot creation, and Young is the biggest name available.
A proposed trade would send Young to Milwaukee, with Atlanta receiving Bobby Portis, Kyle Kuzma, another player, and Milwaukee’s 2031 first-round pick. While Portis and Kuzma could help Atlanta, this trade could strain Milwaukee’s already thin depth. Although Young could enhance the Bucks, this deal may feel more like a desperate move than a well-balanced trade.
Other Teams Mentioned
- LA Clippers: Interest in Young is limited since Kawhi Leonard’s return lessens the need, and the Clippers’ future focus likely won’t include Young.
- Toronto Raptors: Young may not suit their defensive style; the required assets for a trade would be too costly.
- Sacramento Kings: No interest in trading for Young, a smart stance given their recent strong performances.
- Dallas Mavericks: No interest has been reported in acquiring Young, avoiding adding more issues like those with Davis.
Fan Take:
This potential Trae Young trade is a pivotal moment in NBA dynamics, highlighting the complex balance between star talent, salary considerations, and team chemistry. For basketball fans, it signals how teams strategize not just for talent, but for sustainable success, shaping the future landscape of the league.
