The Atlanta Hawks have been struggling this season with Trae Young on the court. He has only played in ten games for the team, but he has not performed well. Not only does he have his worst statistical season since his rookie year, but the team is just 2-8 with him playing games.
With the team playing much better without him, it was apparent that Young was not going to be getting a contract extension in Atlanta. Over the past few days, the Hawks and Young had decided to work together to find a trade partner that would satisfy both parties.
Earlier on Wednesday, it was reported that Young preferred to be traded to the Wizards. Young ended up getting his wish shortly afterwards.
GettyAtlanta Hawks guard Trae Young drives the ball. (Photo by Geoff Stellfox/Getty Images)
Atlanta Hawks Trade Trae Young to the Washington Wizards
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania , the Hawks have agreed to trade Young to Washington. He is headed to Washington, with Atlanta getting CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert in return. There are no draft picks involved in this trade, which is somewhat surprising.
McCollum holds a contract that is over $30 million and is expiring at the end of the season. That gives Atlanta some cap flexibility at the end of the season when they are looking to add players in free agency. McCollum is also a solid ball-handler and scorer.
Kispert gives the Hawks a solid 3-point shooter when he is healthy. He is shooting just under 40 percent from beyond the 3-point arc this season, although he has played in just 19 games. Adding him gives Atlanta another solid shooter to build around Jalen Johnson .
With this trade, the Hawks are signaling a new era built around Johnson and Dyson Daniels . Those two players will be the core for now, although Atlanta is expected to pursue Anthony Davis , as well.
GettyAtlanta Hawks guard Trae Young dribbles the ball. (Photo by Geoff Stellfox/Getty Images)
The Hawks’ Return for Trade Young is Shockingly Low
For Atlanta not to get any first-round draft picks, even one that is lightly protected. That shows just how far Young’s trade stock has fallen over the last couple of seasons. His defensive rating is the worst it has ever been, and teammates don’t seem to have fun playing with him.
Even so, Young is an excellent passer and has a deep range. He likely will never be an efficient shooter, but his ability to get hot is certainly an asset for any team that is looking to contend. He just has to have the right players around him defensively.
This trade means that the Hawks are serious about winning this season, and they are fine with trading away the face of the franchise. Without Young, the fans will have to find a new player to rally around for the next few years. Perhaps that ends up being Johnson.
Currently, the Hawks sit 10th in the Eastern Conference standings. The Wizards are 14th.
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