NBA front offices believe the Atlanta Hawks will listen to trade proposals involving Trae Young even though the All-Star guard has not been formally placed on the market, ESPN’s Tim Bontemps and Brian Windhorst reported.
According to the story, one rival executive said Atlanta is “at least” expected to answer the phone if other teams inquire about Young, 27, who holds a $49 million player option for the 2026-27 season. With no contract-extension talks held this offseason, Young could reach free agency next summer by declining that option.
Injury complicates timing
Young is sidelined for a minimum of three more weeks with an MCL sprain. The point guard topped the league in assists last season but got off to a slow start this year before the injury.
Roster flexibility and future assets
The Hawks’ roster already features emerging talents Jalen Johnson, Dyson Daniels and this year’s No. 1 pick Zaccharie Risacher. Atlanta also owns the New Orleans Pelicans’ unprotected first-round pick in next year’s draft.
“Atlanta is good enough to keep Trae and make the playoffs,” an Eastern Conference executive told ESPN. “But with the pick and Jalen, Dyson and Zach, they’ll at least pick up the phone and listen when called.”
Financial picture
Young becomes eligible for a four-year extension worth up to $230 million after the season. Meanwhile, the Hawks have approximately $55 million committed to Johnson and Daniels for next year, and center Kristaps Porzingis is set to enter free agency.
For now, both Atlanta’s front office and Young’s representatives plan to monitor how the season unfolds before addressing contract terms or potential trade value.
Source: Hoops Wire
