NBA star Trae Young could soon play for a new team. The point guard and the Atlanta Hawks are reportedly working on a trade.
Four-time NBA All-Star, franchise face, and record holder for three-pointers and assists – but Trae Young could soon turn his back on the Atlanta Hawks!
According to ESPN information, the 27-year-old point guard and his agents Aaron Mintz, Drew Morrison, and Austin Brown are working on a trade with general manager Onsi Saleh. The talks have been “positive and cooperative” for about a week, according to ESPN sources from both sides.
NBA star Trae Young could soon leave the Atlanta Hawks
NBA: Atlanta’s Signal for a Rebuild
For months, the club and player have been in contact about his future. The deciding factor: Atlanta opted not to make an early contract offer this summer. Young still has two guaranteed years totaling $95 million, after which he holds a player option. For many observers, it is clear: the front office is ushering in a new era.
Forward Jalen Johnson has emerged as the team’s unofficial leader with an average of 24 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 8.5 assists. Free agent newcomer Nickeil Alexander-Walker is having his best season to date with 20.7 points per game. Both developments create room to put the ball in other hands.
Record Without Young Speaks Volumes
Injuries are further slowing young people down. After an early knee sprain, the NBA star is now suffering from a bruise on his right thigh, which has sidelined him for five games.
In total, he missed 27 games. Without him, Atlanta has a 15:12 record and concedes almost ten fewer points per game. With Young on the court, the record is 2:8 – a sobering picture for a player of his caliber.
Next blockbuster in sight?
Since his 2018 draft, the playmaker has led the Hawks to the playoffs three times, even reaching the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021. Nevertheless, the club seems ready to close this chapter.
Whether a trade can be realized before the start of the next season depends on the offers from competitors. One thing is clear: Trae Young’s name is likely to dominate the market in the coming weeks.