THE SITUATION
According to multiple sources with knowledge of the situation, Trae Young and his agents at Klutch Sports have approached the Atlanta Hawks front office with a formal request to explore trade possibilities. This development comes after weeks of speculation about the franchise's direction following a disappointing start to the season.
Young, who has been with the Hawks since being drafted 5th overall in 2018, has established himself as one of the league's premier offensive talents. The three-time All-Star is averaging 26.8 points and 10.4 assists per game this season, continuing his high level of production despite the team's struggles.
Sources indicate that the decision is mutual and both Young and the Hawks organization are working collaboratively to find the best solution for all parties involved. The relationship between Young and the franchise remains professional and respectful.
TRAE YOUNG 2025-26 SEASON STATS
WHAT LED TO THIS MOMENT
2021 Eastern Conference Finals Run
Young led the Hawks to an unexpected Eastern Conference Finals appearance, establishing himself as a franchise cornerstone and raising championship expectations.
Roster Changes and Struggles
Despite multiple roster adjustments and attempts to build a championship contender around Young, the Hawks have failed to advance past the first round in subsequent playoff appearances.
Current Season Disappointment
The Hawks currently sit below .500, struggling with defensive consistency and roster chemistry despite Young's continued elite offensive production.
Mutual Decision to Explore Options
After conversations between Young's camp and Hawks management, both sides agreed that exploring trade possibilities could benefit the long-term goals of both parties.
POTENTIAL LANDING SPOTS
League sources have identified several teams that could emerge as potential suitors for the dynamic point guard. Young's unique skill set and proven ability to lead an offense make him an attractive target for win-now teams seeking a franchise player.
LOS ANGELES LAKES
Could package young assets and future picks to pair Young with their existing star power, creating an elite offensive trio.
SAN ANTONIO SPURS
Have the assets and young talent to make a competitive offer while providing Young an opportunity to lead a rising franchise.
MIAMI HEAT
Known for their win-now culture and could offer a package centered around established players and draft capital.
WASHINGTON WIZARDS
Possess numerous draft picks and young players that could intrigue Atlanta while positioning themselves as contenders.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR THE HAWKS
Trading Trae Young would mark a significant turning point for the Atlanta Hawks franchise. After building their roster and identity around the star point guard for the past seven seasons, the organization would enter a new era focused on asset accumulation and rebuilding.
The Hawks are likely to seek a substantial return package that includes multiple first-round draft picks, promising young players, and potentially established talent that fits their timeline. General Manager Landry Fields faces one of the most crucial decisions of his tenure.
However, the franchise also has young pieces in place, including promising forwards and recent draft picks, that could serve as building blocks for the next chapter of Hawks basketball. The return from a Young trade could accelerate their rebuild significantly.
WHAT'S NEXT
The Hawks are expected to begin preliminary conversations with interested teams in the coming days. However, sources indicate there is no rush to complete a deal, and the organization will be methodical in evaluating all potential offers.
Young is expected to continue playing for the Hawks while the trade exploration process unfolds. The 26-year-old remains professional and committed to performing at a high level regardless of the uncertainty surrounding his future.
The February trade deadline looms as a potential target date, though the Hawks could also choose to extend their search into the offseason when more teams have flexibility and assets to make competitive offers.
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