Hawks Trade Trae Young to Wizards in Surprising Move
The Atlanta Hawks have traded their star point guard Trae Young to the Washington Wizards in a significant deal that reshapes both franchises. Young, a four-time NBA All-Star and the cornerstone of the Hawks’ offense since being drafted fifth overall in 2018, will now call Washington his home after expressing his desire to be traded. The Hawks will receive veteran shooting guard CJ McCollum and forward Corey Kispert in return, marking the end of a notable chapter in Atlanta basketball history. This move isn’t entirely surprising given the existing connection between Young and Washington executive Travis Schlenk, who originally drafted Young while working in Atlanta’s front office.
During his tenure with the Hawks, Young established himself as one of the NBA’s premier playmakers and scorers, becoming the franchise leader in both three-pointers made and assists. His impact was particularly felt during the 2021 season when he led Atlanta to the Eastern Conference Finals, their deepest playoff run with Young at the helm. Despite these accomplishments, the Hawks have struggled to build consistent success around their star guard, sitting at a disappointing 17-21 record this season. Young’s own contributions have been limited this year, as he’s appeared in just 10 games while battling various leg injuries, including a troublesome right MCL sprain, averaging 19.2 points and 8.9 assists per game—below his career averages of 25.2 points and 9.8 assists.
The trade signals a clear shift in direction for Atlanta, who appear to be building around emerging star forward Jalen Johnson. The 22-year-old Johnson has taken a significant leap this season, averaging an impressive 23.7 points per game and showing the potential to be the team’s new focal point. Nickeil Alexander-Walker has also been a bright spot for the Hawks, contributing 20.5 points per game across 36 appearances. By moving Young and his substantial contract—which has $95 million remaining through 2026-27—Atlanta gains financial flexibility that could allow them to pursue additional moves. There are already rumors connecting the Hawks to Dallas Mavericks’ Anthony Davis, suggesting that this trade might be just the beginning of a larger roster overhaul.
From Washington’s perspective, acquiring Young represents a major investment in a proven, albeit sometimes polarizing, talent. At 27 years old, Young still has several prime years ahead of him and brings elite playmaking ability to a Wizards team that has struggled to find consistent star power in recent seasons. Young’s scoring prowess and exceptional court vision—he led the NBA in assists last season with 11.6 per game—give Washington a centerpiece to build around. The move also comes with financial commitments, as the Wizards take on Young’s significant contract, which includes a player option for the final season that could potentially give Young leverage in future negotiations.
For the Hawks, parting with McCollum brings both cap relief and veteran leadership. The 32-year-old guard is on an expiring $30.6 million contract, which provides Atlanta with financial flexibility after this season. During his career, McCollum has been known for his scoring ability and professionalism, traits that could help mentor younger Hawks players during this transitional period. Kispert, the other player heading to Atlanta, offers youth and shooting ability on the wing, fitting well with the team’s apparent shift toward developing younger talent alongside Johnson and Alexander-Walker.
This blockbuster trade exemplifies how quickly fortunes can change in the NBA. Just three years after Young led the Hawks to within two games of the NBA Finals, the franchise has decided to move in a different direction. For Young, this represents both a challenge and opportunity—a chance to rewrite his narrative with a fresh start in Washington after injuries and team struggles have dimmed some of the early promise from his career. Basketball fans will watch with interest to see whether Young can elevate the Wizards while the Hawks use their newfound flexibility and emerging talent to build a more balanced and successful team. As both franchises enter new eras, only time will tell which side ultimately benefits most from this significant transaction.
