The Washington Wizards have entered talks as a legal trade destination for Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young, with momentum building as the Hawks work directly with his representatives on a potential solution.
Mark Stein reports that Washington is now a team taking a serious look at the situation, and any potential framework is expected to revolve around linebacker C.J. McCollum's expiring contract.
Shams Charania added to Stein's report that Trae is being traded to Atlanta.
“Atlanta Hawks All-Star Trae Young and his agents Aaron Mintz, Drew Morrison and Austin Brown are in the process of being traded with the team, sources told ESPN. Young's representatives and the Hawks began working together to negotiate a solution last week.
Shams added, “The Hawks and Young's agent have maintained active conversations about his future since the team chose not to offer a contract extension before his 2026 player option last summer. The two parties are now working together on a trade with Atlanta.”
Young's future in Atlanta has been a focus of discussion for some time, but this season has only intensified the concerns.
The four-time All-Star is limited to 10 games in 2025-26 due to lingering knee issues, and he hasn't played in a game since Dec. 27.
In the loss to the New York Knicks, Young scored 9 points and 10 assists, but also committed 6 turnovers.
That was compounded by his absence from the entirety of November, during which the Eagles went ten and five games without him.
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