Riding on the back of their rising star, Trae Young, many thought the Hawks would be a contender for years to come after they advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021. But over the last few seasons, a lot has gone wrong for the team, as Young was unable to lead Atlanta past the opening round in 2022 and 2023. The Hawks (22-29) are struggling to stay relevant this season as well; they are currently seven games below.500 and are just about hanging on to the 10th seed and a play-in spot. Word on the street is that the Hawks will make Young and the majority of their roster available for trades this summer if they flame out of the first round once more, or worse, fail to qualify for the postseason. Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports claims that the next few months will determine Young’s future in Atlanta. He wrote, “There are a few front offices that paid attention to Atlanta’s pre-deadline rumors and left talks with the Hawks with the impression Trae Young might become available for trade this summer—depending on Atlanta’s performance for the balance of this campaign.” The Lakers were reportedly prepared to give the Hawks three first-round picks and Austin Reaves in exchange for Young, according to earlier reports from ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. Fischer claims that the Spurs might become the point guard’s next suitor in the summer. “Aside from Los Angeles, San Antonio has also been frequently brought up by NBA figures as a possible destination for Young, should Atlanta decide to part with its franchise face and All-Star lead ball handler. The Spurs do not have a definite pick-and-roll partner for Victor Wembanyama, their rookie sensation.” The talent agency Klutch Sports, which also represents LeBron James and Anthony Davis of the Lakers, is Young’s representative. James has also been a strong advocate for Young over the years.
