Trae Young, the standout point guard for the Atlanta Hawks, made his much-anticipated comeback last week, but the results have raised doubts about the team’s chances for a competitive run in the Eastern Conference. Young participated in two games, both resulting in losses for the Hawks, who allowed an alarming average of 138 points per game during this stretch. Despite the team’s struggles, Young showcased his individual talent by scoring 35 points and dishing out nine assists in a recent game against the Chicago Bulls, shooting efficiently on just 16 attempts and committing only two turnovers.
Atlanta’s current situation has been complicated by the decision not to extend Young’s contract during the offseason. This choice has left him with the potential to enter free agency at the conclusion of the season, as he holds a player option worth nearly $50 million for the 2026-2027 season. This uncertainty has led to rampant trade speculation, which is expected to intensify as the February 5 trade deadline approaches.
NBA insider Jake Fischer highlighted various lead guards who are under scrutiny this winter, with Young’s name frequently mentioned alongside other potential trade targets like Ja Morant, LaMelo Ball, Darius Garland, and James Harden. The ongoing trade dialogue reflects a broader trend in the league, as teams evaluate potential movements based on individual circumstances.
With the future of Trae Young in Atlanta becoming increasingly uncertain, fans remain hopeful that his return, coupled with the emergence of Jalen Johnson, could pose challenges for Eastern Conference rivals. However, the injury that sidelined Young for over a month has necessitated a tighter timeline for the Hawks’ management to assess team dynamics. As additional injuries accumulate among the squad, first-year general manager Onsi Saleh and the front office face growing difficulties in forming a clear vision for the team’s potential, rendering the upcoming trade deadline particularly challenging.
While the Hawks navigate these complexities, there remains an optimistic belief that cohesiveness and performance can be achieved, allowing the team to turn their fortunes around as they strive for contention in the conference.