One of the biggest trades of this season took place on Wednesday after the Atlanta Hawks traded their franchise centerpiece, Trae Young, to the Washington Wizards. More shocking than the trade is the fact that Atlanta did not recover any draft picks despite moving one of its best players.
Many teams across the league showed interest in Young ahead of the move. Teams were willing to overlook his shortcomings on defense in favor of his 3-point shooting and stellar playmaking. But Young had his heart set on one destination, Washington, a team that has not made the playoffs since 2021.
The shocking move has left most fans with just one question, “Why did Trae Young want to go to Washington?” Let’s take a closer look at the potential reasons.
Why did Trae Young prefer being traded to the Washington Wizards?
#1 Contract extension chance
The biggest issue with Young potentially continuing with the Hawks was that both sides did not see eye to eye on a potential deal. Young was looking to secure his future, while Atlanta wasn’t ready to offer him an extension past his 2026 player option.
However, Young might not face any such problems in Washington. The team has ample cap space available to offer the four-time All-Star a sizeable deal. While being with the Wizards offers Young the best chance at an extension, according to Charania that is a discussion that will be on hold until the team evaluates his health.
#2 Chance to be a No. 1 option with fewer expectations
Trae Young ran the Hawks’ offense for seven seasons, establishing himself as one of the best guards in the league. Unfortunately, he could not live up to fans’ expectations as the team’s leader, missing the playoffs the last three seasons.
The mounting pressure to win and the uncertainty of his long-term future seemingly affected Young’s performance. With the Wizards, Young won’t be under pressure to contend, an alleviation of stress that likely made the star guard view Washington as a preferred destination.
#3 The Wizards can build around Trae Young
Most likely the biggest reason behind Trae Young’s move to Washington is that it can still build around him. The Wizards’ roster is packed with tradable assets. The team also has an abundance of picks giving it plenty of options. Lastly, the availability of cap space makes Washington an attractive option in free agency next summer. As such, Young may find a future with the Wizards where he finds postseason success.
Meanwhile, the Hawks had started to shift toward making Jalen Johnson their franchise centerpiece. Most of the team’s moves pointed toward a future where Young wouldn’t be the No. 1 option, weighing his options probably made the decision easier for Young.
He played 10 games for the Hawks this season, averaging 19.3 points and 8.9 assists per game. Still one of the best playmaking guards in the league, Young brings much excitement to the Wizards franchise.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
