As the year draws to a close, the Atlanta Hawks are facing a crossroads with star guard Trae Young.
Despite being one of the most dynamic offensive players in the NBA in recent years, Young’s inconsistent play, injuries, and looming contract situation appear to be testing the patience of the Hawks’ front office, particularly as he could play a key role in a potential Anthony Davis trade to Atlanta.
The franchise may now be willing to explore trade options for the four-time All-Star, according to NBA insider Marc Stein, despite previous reports suggesting otherwise.
“There is a growing belief leaguewide that the Hawks are more open to trading him away than they’ve ever been,” said Stein. “But what happens to their payroll if no such trade materializes and Young winds up exercising that option?”
Young is entering the final years of his five-year, $215 million deal, holding a $48.9 million player option for the 2026-27 season. That decision point creates significant urgency for the Hawks, either they strike a deal before the trade deadline or risk losing significant leverage as the situation continues.
Trae Young’s Struggles Highlight Hawks’ Dilemma
Young has had a turbulent start to the season. After missing 22 games with a sprained right MCL, the Hawks went 13-9 without him. Since his return prior to Christmas, Atlanta has lost 10 of their last 12 games, raising questions about the team’s cohesion and whether the offense runs more smoothly without the 27-year-old’s high-usage style.
Through 10 games this season, he is averaging 19.3 points and 8.9 assists but shooting just 30.5 percent from three-point range, marking his lowest long-range output since his rookie season in 2018-19.
Defensively, Young’s limitations are magnified in pick-and-roll situations, with opposing teams regularly exploiting mismatches. While he remains a gifted playmaker capable of creating scoring opportunities, the combination of missed games, defensive shortcomings, and general fit on the roster has sparked speculation about Atlanta’s long-term direction.
Trade Considerations and Potential Impact
Anthony Davis is currently under contract through the 2026-27 season, with a $62.7 million player option for 2027-28. It is believed Davis and his agent, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports Group, may pursue a contract extension prior to that, as he will be eligible for a $275 million, four-year deal.
Young’s sizable salary, along with the expiring deals of Kristaps Porzingis ($30.7M) and Luke Kennard ($11M), have been suggested by Stein as possible components in a trade to match salaries for a deal involving Davis.
However, how much additional draft compensation the Mavericks may seek remains unclear, and whether the Hawks are willing to give up so much considering Davis’ age and injury history is yet to be determined.
Atlanta’s increased openness to including Young in trade talks will undoubtedly draw league-wide attention. Front offices will be evaluating the possibility, leveraging the tension between immediate competitiveness and long-term financial flexibility.
Adding complexity is the potential inclusion of young pieces like Zaccharie Risacher, the 2024 No. 1 overall pick, who could be part of a blockbuster package, according to Stein. While Risacher has shown promise, his development has not fully met expectations, making him a potential trade asset.
Ultimately, how the Hawks handle Trae Young will have wide-ranging implications across the Eastern Conference. Whether they maintain the status quo or pursue a major roster shake-up, the next few months will be critical for Atlanta’s ambitions, financial strategy, and Young’s future with the franchise.
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