UPDATE: The Atlanta Hawks have officially traded four-time All-Star Trae Young to the Washington Wizards, marking a seismic shift in the NBA landscape. This blockbuster deal, confirmed by multiple sources, sees Young heading to Washington in exchange for CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert.
This trade not only ends Young’s seven-year tenure as the face of the Hawks franchise but also places him in his preferred location in Washington, D.C., where he will take on the role of lead guard for the Wizards. The Hawks, currently standing at 17-21 and ranked 10th in the Eastern Conference, have struggled with a 2-8 record while Young was on the court.
Top Wizards officials Michael Winger and Will Dawkins have been actively searching for a cornerstone player to anchor their developing roster, and they believe Young is the key to unlocking their potential amid a significant rebuild. This move also allows the Hawks to pivot towards a new era, featuring emerging talents like Jalen Johnson and Onyeka Okongwu, as they seek a more dynamic playing style.
The financial implications are notable: McCollum, who holds a $30.6 million expiring contract, brings veteran leadership to Atlanta while freeing up financial flexibility for future trades. The Hawks are now positioned to pursue high-profile players, with Anthony Davis of the Dallas Mavericks emerging as a potential target in the coming months.
Young’s departure comes after extensive discussions between his agents and Hawks general manager Onsi Saleh, particularly after the franchise chose not to extend Young’s contract. The 27-year-old guard has $95 million remaining on his deal through the 2026-27 season. Despite recent injuries, including a right MCL sprain and a right quad contusion that sidelined him for the last six games, Young remains the Hawks’ all-time leader in 3-pointers and assists, with averages of 25.2 points and 9.8 assists over his career.
Following this trade, the Wizards will benefit financially, moving $30 million below the luxury tax threshold and clearing $46 million in cap room for the summer. Initial extension talks with Young are not anticipated, as both parties will assess his health upon his arrival in Washington.
For the Wizards, this trade represents a significant step forward. They currently rank near the bottom in offensive efficiency, averaging just 50.0 points per game from guards and 11.9 assists per game. Young’s addition is expected to enhance their offensive capabilities, which have struggled since their last playoff appearance in the 2020-21 season.
As the NBA trade deadline approaches, all eyes will be on Atlanta and Washington. The Hawks aim to revitalize their roster, while the Wizards hope for a resurgence with Young at the helm.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.