The Atlanta Hawks and Trae Young’s Contract Situation
The Atlanta Hawks are unlikely to finalize a contract extension for star player Trae Young ahead of the upcoming NBA regular season, as reported by The Athletic. Young, who just turned 27, is entering the last guaranteed year of his current contract, which is valued at $46 million for the season. He has an option for $49 million in the 2026-27 season, and should he opt out, he would become an unrestricted free agent next summer. Currently, Young is eligible for a lucrative four-year extension worth approximately $229 million.
Focus on Team Performance
During the Hawks’ media day last month, Young significantly shifted the focus away from contract negotiations, stating that his main priority is the team’s performance this season.
“I don’t know [about] the word disappointment. I mean, maybe, for sure, but I’m so focused. I’m more happy about the team that we got going into this season,”
Young noted, as reported by ESPN’s Ohm Youngmisuk. He expressed a certain calmness regarding the potential outcomes of his contract situation, emphasizing his gratitude for the team’s current roster and downplaying any anxiety over negotiations.
Roster Enhancements
To bolster their roster and make strides in the upcoming season, the Hawks have recently added players like Kristaps Porziņģis, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and Luke Kennard. These acquisitions aim to support not only Young but also other promising talents on the team, including Jalen Johnson, Dyson Daniels, Zaccharie Risacher, and Onyeka Okongwu.
Looking Ahead
General manager Onsi Saleh is pushing for a turnaround this season, especially after the team has struggled to progress beyond the play-in stage in the last two years. Both Trae Young and key newcomers Porziņģis and Kennard are entering a pivotal summer where they could also face free agency. Additionally, the Hawks have 22-year-old Daniels, last season’s Most Improved Player and the NBA steals leader, who has showcased impressive stats with averages of 14.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 3.0 steals per game. Daniels has until October 20 to secure an extension; without it, he will be positioned as a restricted free agent next summer.
