Trae Young, Hawks Reportedly Working on Trade, What Are Most Likely Landing Spots?

Trae Young could be on his way out of Atlanta soon.

Per ESPN's Shams Charania, the star point guard and his agents are working with the Hawks to find a trade. According to Charania, the two sides "have maintained positive dialogue on his future ever since the franchise elected not to offer a contract extension last summer ahead of his 2026 player option," but will now try to go their separate ways.

While it appears the Hawks are still in the early stages of fielding offers for Young, one team jumps out as an immediate possible landing spot based on recent reports.

NBA insider Marc Stein reported Monday that the Washington Wizards have emerged as a "legitimate potential trade destination" for Young. Stein added that a deal for Young would be "centered around CJ McCollum's expiring contract."

The Wizards' interest is a bit surprising considering they're 9-25 and far from legit contenders. Washington might be playing the long game, however hoping to build a roster centered around Young for years to come.

Another team in the Southeast Division stands out as a possible landing spot for Young as well. There have been rumblings about LaMelo Ball possibly wanting a trade away from the Charlotte Hornets, and swapping him for Young could be a smart move for both sides.

That trade would depend on how willing the Hawks are to take on a budding star who has struggled with injuries, though.

In the Western Conference, one team is dealing with a disgruntled star who seemingly will be on his way out soon. Ja Morant has been in trade rumors since the start of the season, following his suspension for criticism of the Memphis Grizzlies' coaching staff.

Morant's trade value reportedly has plummeted this year, which could make a trade more affordable for the Hawks.

Young, a four-time All-Star, has had a rough start to the 2025-26 campaign, putting up 19.3 points and 8.9 assists per game while appearing in just 10 contests. Young recently returned from an extended absence due to a knee injury, but he's now back on the injury report because of a quad injury.

The Hawks reached the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021 with Young leading the way, but it appears that might have been their ceiling. Now, Young might get a fresh start elsewhere.