Wizards GM Dawkins Expects Trae Young to Return After All-Star Break
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Washington Wizards general manager Will Dawkins said newly acquired point guard Trae Young will remain inactive until the NBA’s All-Star break but has not been ruled out for the remainder of the season. Dawkins made the remarks during an interview with Mark Medina of EssentiallySports.
“It’s important for us to watch Trae play alongside our young core,” Dawkins noted, adding that the front office wants Young to share the floor with rookie center Alex Sarr and second-year wing Bilal Coulibaly before roster decisions are made in July.
Young, a four-time All-Star, holds a $49 million player option for 2026-27. After appearing in only 10 games this season because of injuries, the 27-year-old could choose to exercise that option. Dawkins said contract talks have not started, though both sides have “laid the groundwork” for future discussions, whether Young opts in or tests free agency.
Sarr and Coulibaly’s Fit Next to Young
Dawkins believes Sarr and Coulibaly can seamlessly complement Young because of their length, versatility, and ability to switch on defense. He called both players “high-level defenders” capable of impacting the game individually and within a team scheme.
Sarr’s All-Star Résumé
The rookie center has impressed the organization with improved timing, physicality, and rim protection. Dawkins said Sarr lives “at the rim on both ends” and, when compared blindly to other Eastern Conference centers, has numbers that make him “pretty close” to All-Star consideration.
Whitmore’s Meeting With Keefe
Dawkins also referenced a productive session earlier this season between rookie forward Cam Whitmore and head coach Brian Keefe. Keefe asked Whitmore to identify the type of career he wants and to model the habits of players who have reached that level. Dawkins said Whitmore embraced the challenge and the team is eager for his return from injury.
Long-Term Outlook
Looking ahead, Dawkins declined to set a playoff mandate for next season. He emphasized incremental improvement, saying the organization will not “push the button” until its young roster is ready to compete consistently.
Source: HoopsRumors
