Since reaching the Eastern Conference Finals back in 2021, the Atlanta Hawks have continued to trend in a downward direction. Following the organization’s latest shake-up, speculation could arise on the future of All-Star guard Trae Young.
Finishing with a 40-42 record, the Hawks found themselves fighting for a playoff spot in the play-in tournament. Things did not pan out for them, suffering a pair of losses to the Orlando Magic and Miami Heat.
Upon missing the playoffs for a second straight season, the Hawks decided to make a change at the top of the organization. On Monday afternoon, reports emerged that Atlanta has decided to part ways with general manager Landry Fields.
With a new front office regime getting ready to take over, more change could be on the way for the Hawks. Given the current state of the roster, Young is someone they could consider moving in an attempt to take the franchise in a different direction.
Over the past year, the Hawks have openly embraced a youth movement. This has yielded positive results, as numerous players have shown great signs of development. Jalen Johnson looked to be on an All-Star path before suffering a season-ending injury and Dyson Daniels put together a DPOY-level campaign after coming over from the New Orleans Pelicans. On top of this, former No. 1 pick Zaccharie Risacher showed a lot of promise to close out his first NBA season.
Young, who will be 27 before next season starts, is in the prime of his career and looking to compete now. While Atlanta has exciting, youthful talent around him, it is on a different timeline. Because of this, a new front office might look to consider parting with the All-Star guard in hopes of landing more young talent to add to the core.
The Hawks’ star was one of the league’s top point guards yet again this season, averaging 24.2 PPG and 11.6 APG. Though his fit isn’t seamless due to physical limitations, a market would surely form if he were made available.
It’s also worth noting that Young’s name already started getting floated around in rumors long before this firing. Back in March, insider Michael Scotto reported that teams around the league are monitoring his situation closely.
“Atlanta is ideally not looking to go over the luxury tax threshold next season, HoopsHype has learned, which will play a role in the team’s roster construction this summer and the futures of those veterans.
“How this all affects Young’s future remains to be seen, but it’s a situation that executives will continue to monitor in the coming months.”
Trading Young isn’t something the Hawks should fully commit to this summer, but it is worth strongly considering for a new front office looking to make an impact.
