Deal Breakdown
A vital member of Atlanta's squad since 2018, Trae Young is traded to Washington. In return, the Hawks acquire seasoned scorer CJ McCollum and sharpshooter Corey Kispert; no draft selections are mentioned. Young's massive contract (about $95 million through 2026–2027, with a $49 million player option) passes to the Wizards, while McCollum's contract expires soon, giving the Hawks salary flexibility.
Hawks' Reset Strategy
After a disastrous season in which the team did better without Young in lineups, Atlanta's management office had had enough. Young people surrounding Dyson Daniels and Zaccharie Risacher are given priority in this transfer, along with financial flexibility for upcoming summers. Young's lack of an extension meant it was time to make a drastic change.
Wizards Land a Star
Young, a 25+ PPG, nearly 10 APG machine who named D.C. as his top destination, scores a lot for Washington. To give fans a new identity, he teams up with Alex Sarr and Bilal Coulibaly. There is still cap space available for the Wizards to expand.
Loyalty? What Loyalty?
This transaction perfectly captures the harsh reality of the NBA: teams turn pages quickly and players are dealt when timeframes collide. Atlanta's brand was created by Young, but it ships before Year 10. Hawks abandon their emblem in favor of space and veterans. Nothing sentimental, just business. What are DirectSports?What do 24 fans think—a loyalty bloodbath or a win for both? Share your opinions below!
