> At a Glance
> – Trae Young and the Hawks have opened collaborative trade discussions
> – Wizards surface as possible destination around CJ McCollum’s expiring deal
> – Young has played only 10 games, averaging 19.3 pts, 8.9 ast on 41.5/30.5/86.3 splits
> – Why it matters: A four-time All-Star point guard could be on the move before the Feb. 5 deadline, reshaping the playoff picture.
Atlanta’s relationship with its franchise cornerstone is approaching a crossroads, with both sides now actively exploring a split.
Trade Talks Underway
The Hawks have spent the past week working with Trae Young’s representatives-Aaron Mintz, Drew Morrison and Austin Brown-on finding a suitable trade, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. The guard, drafted fifth overall in 2018, has plateaued since the team’s 2018 Eastern Conference finals run and Atlanta sits at 17-20 when the report surfaces.
Marc Stein adds that Washington has emerged as a potential landing spot, with a package built around CJ McCollum’s expiring contract.
On-Court Slump
Limited to 10 appearances this season, Young’s production has dipped across the board:
- Points: 24.2 → 19.3
- Assists: 11.6 → 8.9
- Rebounds: 3.1 → 1.5
- Minutes: 36.0 → 28.0
- Three-point %: 34.0 → 30.5
The Hawks have fared slightly better without him, though the sample remains small.
What He Still Brings
Even with declining long-range accuracy and well-documented playoff defensive issues, Young’s elite playmaking keeps him a sought-after engine for offenses. Meanwhile, Jalen Johnson paces Atlanta with 24 points a night and Nickeil Alexander-Walker posts career highs of 20.7 points on 45/38/85 shooting.
Key Takeaways
- Collaborative talks between Young and the Hawks are ongoing
- Wizards interest centers on McCollum’s expiring money
- Trade deadline hits Feb. 5 at 3 p.m. ET
A deal would mark the end of an era in Atlanta and thrust another high-usage playmaker into a new system for the stretch run.
