Goal:
The Atlanta Hawks' front office clearly wants to reset its roster direction by trading Trae Young while he’s still a top playmaker, and Young’s cooperation in the process shows he’s committed to getting a fair deal done for both sides. At the same time, this move would let the Hawks lean more on Jalen Johnson’s leap on improvement alongside Nickeil Alexander-Walker’s versatility as a two-way guard as they build around a younger, more balanced core.
Trade:
Hawks sends: Trae Young
Wizards sends: CJ McCollum, Corey Kispert, AJ Johnson, '26 FRP (via OKC, HOU or LAC) & '26 FRP (Lottery Protected)
I believe htat this trade helps the Hawks move forward by turning one star into multiple solid assets that better fit the team’s timeline. The Hawks add scoring depth, shooting, and two first-round picks whilst giving Johnson more room to grow into a lead role, making the roster more balanced and flexible for the future.
How is this beneficial for the Washington Wizards? 🧙‍♂️
From my point of view, this trade helps Washington by adding a proven guard who can run the offense and set the tone for the team. Trae Young takes pressure off young players like Tre Johnson and Bub Carrington, giving them space to grow while learning from an elite scorer and passer, and could raise excitement and fan interest as the Wizards keep their young core together.
Atlanta Hawks Depth Chart:
PG) Dyson Daniels
SG) CJ McCollum
SF) Nickeil Alexander-Walker / Zaccharie Risacher
PF) Jalen Johnson
C) Onyeka Okongwu
6) Zaccharie Risacher / Nickeil Alexander-Walker
Washington Wizards Depth Chart:
PG) Trae Young
SG) Tre Johnson
SF) Bilal Coulibaly
PF) Kyshawn George
C) Alexandre Sarr
6) Khris Middleton / Bub Carrington
Overall and Summary:
I believe this trade reshapes both rosters significantly. The Hawks give up Trae Young but gain CJ McCollum, Corey Kispert, AJ Johnson, and two future first round picks, which adds depth, shooting, and draft flexibility while allowing young players like Jalen Johnson and Dyson Daniels to take on bigger roles. The Wizards on the other hand, acquire an elite point guard in Trae Young, giving them instant scoring, playmaking, and a leader for their young core. The main upside for Atlanta is the ability to build a more balanced and a long-term roster, though the downside is losing a proven star and potentially immediate competitiveness. For Washington, the upside is adding an above-average level talent, while the risk lies in giving up depth and future assets if Trae struggles or the team chemistry doesn’t click. Personally, I'm not really a huge fan of Trae Young being traded, I still believe he's still a good player; though, I know Young isn't giving the Hawks a championship-contending window + huge contract + doesn't fit their current system + attitude problems is a hard thing.