According to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports, the Utah Jazz aimed to acquire Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young as part of their effort to entice Paul George during free agency. George ultimately signed with the Philadelphia 76ers. However, this rumor fuels ongoing speculation about the Hawks potentially exploring trade options for Young. It remains uncertain whether the Jazz proposed a deal similar to what the New Orleans Pelicans offered for Dejounte Murray. Nevertheless, the offseason events have sparked widespread speculation among fans, especially after Young posted a cryptic message in the evening.
The Warriors have moved on from Klay Thompson, who signed a three-year, $50 million contract with the Dallas Mavericks. Despite this, the Warriors have not been connected to Trae Young, who reportedly favors the Lakers, Pelicans, or San Antonio Spurs. Stephen Curry remains with the team.
“Laker wow,” commented another fan.
“Welcome to the Suns, Trae!!!” exclaimed another fan.
Similar to Golden State, Phoenix was not mentioned as a potential destination for Young in the rumors. Given that these teams have addressed their point guard needs for the time being, it appears Young is likely to stay with his current team.
However, not everyone interpreted Young’s message as indicating a trade.
celebrating dejounte's departure pic.twitter.com/u53O4w9tJr
— 𝙯𝙤 (@ogchabzo) July 2, 2024
Young and Murray have insisted that their personal relationship remains solid despite earlier trade rumors.
Some fans speculated that Young could be traded to the Philadelphia 76ers or the Miami Heat, a division rival. However, the prevailing sentiment was that his cryptic message hinted at the three-time All-Star being traded.
There could even be a new contender in the mix.
According to a report, rivals eyed Hawks’ Trae Young in a trade to lure a $212M star in free agency: “The Jazz… were looking into trading for Bridges, held conversations with Atlanta about both Dejounte Murray and Trae Young, sources said, and were working to assemble a group around [Lauri] Markkanen that could have possibly drawn George’s eye,” Fischer wrote on June 30.
Young is entering Year 3 of a five-year, $215.1 million contract. He carries a $43 million cap hit in 2024-25 and has a $48.9 million player option for the final season in 2026-27. He has also expressed a strong desire to win and remain with the Hawks.
It is unclear if the Jazz still have interest in trading for Young, which would provide a key piece alongside Markkanen and make them an attractive destination for another star at the trade deadline or next offseason.
Jimmy Butler, Donovan Mitchell, and Brandon Ingram could all be free agents next summer.
