Former NBA standout DeMarcus Cousins is expressing his desire for Trae Young to be traded from the Atlanta Hawks to the San Antonio Spurs during the upcoming summer. NBA journalist Howard Beck from The Ringer reveals that there were discussions between the Hawks and the Spurs regarding Young’s trade prior to this season’s trade deadline. Additionally, NBA insider Marc Stein indicates that the Hawks acknowledge the necessity to trade either Young or Dejounte Murray during the summer, both of whom are All-Stars represented by Rich Paul of Klutch Sports Group.
Another NBA insider, Kevin O’Connor from The Ringer, reports that it’s highly probable for the Hawks to trade Young after the current season. Young, who signed a hefty five-year, $215 million extension with the Hawks in August 2021, is speculated to be eyeing a move to play alongside Spurs star Victor Wembanyama, as suggested by various sources within the NBA. However, Young lacks a no-trade clause in his contract, which means he has no control over his trade destination if the Hawks decide to move him.
On the court, Young has been performing impressively, averaging 26.4 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 10.8 assists per game this season, while also showcasing strong shooting percentages. Despite being sidelined due to surgery on his left hand’s fifth finger, which will keep him out for around four weeks, Young has been a standout player in the league, ranking high in multiple statistical categories. With a career marked by three All-Star appearances, Young is recognized as one of the premier offensive point guards in the NBA.
Has Trae Young played his last game for Atlanta? @BoogieCousins: "I 𝗵𝗼𝗽𝗲 this is the last time we see him in a Hawks uniform." 👀 We talk Trae's future, a potential fit with Wemby & a few other teams who may also make a push for him this summer. (He's a Klutch client, so…) pic.twitter.com/YaAFle1C2b
— Rachel Nichols (@Rachel__Nichols) February 27, 2024
Given his connection through agent Rich Paul to LeBron James and Anthony Davis, speculation surrounds Young’s potential interest in joining the Los Angeles Lakers, especially considering his attendance at two Lakers playoff games last year.
