Atlanta Hawks standout Trae Young has emerged as a prime target for the Los Angeles Lakers in their planned pursuit of star talent during the offseason. Responding to swirling trade rumors, Young expressed his ongoing commitment to the Hawks while leaving open the possibility of a potential trade this summer.
In an interview with Bleacher Report’s Taylor Rooks on March 5, Young emphasized his desire to bring a championship to Atlanta, citing the city’s lack of NBA titles as motivation. However, he acknowledged the unpredictable nature of the NBA landscape, hinting at the possibility of exploring opportunities elsewhere.
Despite leading the Hawks to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2022, Young and the team have struggled to replicate that success. The addition of former All-Star and All-Defensive guard Dejounte Murray failed to reignite their momentum.
While the Hawks reportedly entertained the idea of parting ways with Murray at the trade deadline, they were unable to secure the desired package in return. Speculation surrounding Young’s future intensified following reports of internal discussions within the Lakers organization regarding a potential trade for him or Donovan Mitchell.
With the Lakers poised to leverage their draft capital and available assets, including multiple first-round picks and mid-sized contracts, Young’s availability on the market has sparked significant interest. NBA insider Marc Stein recently suggested that the “Trae Trade Watch” has begun, indicating that Atlanta may be considering a transformative move involving Young.
While the Hawks have yet to make a definitive decision, the growing market for Young’s services underscores the potential for a significant shift in the team’s direction, should they opt for a rebuild centered around a package anchored by the talented guard.
