Wizards Emerge as Trae Young’s Preferred Destination as Trade Talks With Hawks Advance
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Washington, D.C. — The Washington Wizards have become the leading landing spot on Trae Young’s trade wishlist, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. Speaking on “NBA Today,” Charania indicated that negotiations between the Wizards and the Atlanta Hawks are gaining momentum.
NBA insider Marc Stein previously reported that the two franchises have discussed a framework that would send Young to Washington in exchange for veteran guard CJ McCollum. While both sides acknowledge the talks are real, no agreement has been reached.
Atlanta is reportedly prepared to survey the market before finalizing any move. Washington, for its part, is seeking draft assets and has so far resisted including the types of young players the Hawks would want alongside McCollum.
For now, the Wizards remain the only confirmed suitor making substantive progress. Young is said to be receptive to a move to the nation’s capital.
Washington’s appeal includes a clean salary sheet and flexibility to absorb Young’s $49 million player option for 2026-27 or pivot to a long-term extension. The franchise has also won five of its last seven games, though it is not considered a championship contender.
There is a personal connection as well: Wizards executive Travis Schlenk drafted Young during his tenure in Atlanta.
Young is currently sidelined with a right quad contusion and will miss his sixth consecutive game Wednesday against the New Orleans Pelicans. Trade discussions are expected to continue while he recovers.
Source: Hoops Wire
