ATLANTA, January 8, 2024 – The Atlanta Hawks and All-star guard Trae Young are actively exploring a trade, sources confirmed Monday, signaling a potential shift in direction for the franchise.
A New Chapter for the Hawks?
Discussions between the Hawks and young’s representatives have been described as positive and collaborative.
- Trae Young, a four-time All-Star, and his agents are working with the Hawks on a potential trade.
- The Hawks have not offered Young a contract extension, with his current deal expiring after next season.
- The team performs considerably better when Young is off the court, statistically.
- Jalen Johnson’s emergence as a star player is influencing the hawks’ long-term plans.
For several months, beginning after the team opted not to offer him a contract extension. Young has two seasons remaining on his current contract, totaling $95 million, with a player option afterward.
What impact will a potential trade have on the Hawks’ trajectory? The team’s record reveals a stark contrast: they’ve struggled to a 2-8 record with young in the lineup, but have fared considerably better at 15-12 when he’s sidelined. Opponents score nearly 10 points fewer per game when Young is absent, according to research.
Young has been the focal point of the Hawks as being drafted in 2018, currently holding the franchise records for both 3-pointers made and assists. he’s led the team to three postseason appearances, including a memorable run to the Eastern Conference finals in 2021.
However, the Hawks appear to be positioning themselves for a new era, highlighted by the impressive play of forward Jalen Johnson, who is averaging 24 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 8.5 assists as of Monday. Free agent acquisition Nickeil Alexander-Walker is also contributing significantly, averaging a career-high 20.7 points.
This season has been hampered by injuries for young, limiting him to just 10 games played. He is currently out with a right quad contusion, having previously dealt with a right MCL sprain and lingering pain from that injury.
The All-NBA selection in 2021-22 boasts career averages of 25.2 points and 9.8 assists, and led the league in assists last season with 11.6 per game.
Quick fact: Jalen Johnson’s current averages of 24 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 8.5 assists represent a significant leap in his production, potentially influencing the Hawks’ long-term plans.
| WITH | WITHOUT | |
|---|---|---|
| W-L | 2-8 | 15-12 |
| Win pct | .200 | .556 |
| PPG | 120.4 | 118.4 |
| Opp PPG | 126.7 | 117.4 |
| Opp FG pct | 50% | 47% |
| >>>Numbers from before Monday’s game | ||
