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Atlanta Hawks’ Midseason Grades: Trae Young

By Dallin Duffy

ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 14: Trae Young #11 of the Atlanta Hawks reacts following a three-point basket during the fourth quarter of a game against the Phoenix Suns at State Farm Arena on January 14, 2020 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 14: Trae Young #11 of the Atlanta Hawks reacts following a three-point basket during the fourth quarter of a game against the Phoenix Suns at State Farm Arena on January 14, 2020 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images) /
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Handing out a grade to Trae Young at the Atlanta Hawks’ midseason point.

The Atlanta Hawks hit the midpoint of their season recently, limping their with a 9-32 record, worst in the Eastern Conference.

There has been one major highlight of the year however, sophomore guard Trae Young, and we’ll be filling out his report card here.

Young has been fantastic on the season, developing into one of the league’s premier offensive threats. His 29.1 points per game is currently 3rd in the NBA, trailing just the league’s last two MVPs, Giannis Antetokounmpo and James Harden in that category.

He’s been known for his deep scoring since his days at Oklahoma, and of course that’s still here with the Hawks. In fact, his 37% clip from three is a nice 5% improvement from his rookie year.

Young is probably at his best moving with the ball in his hands, setting himself up with his wickedly clean floater, or others up with his smart, sometimes highlight inducing passes.

Trae is fourth in the league in assists per game, third in assist percentage. He’s constantly setting up those around him, and he’d probably be leading those categories if the Hawks’ supporting cast wasn’t as shoddy as it is.

His ball-handling was amazing his rookie year – and is somehow 100% better this year. He dazzles past opponents, setting up easy looks for himself or others wearing volt and red.

On occasion, the 2nd year guard morphs into ‘Ice Trae’, a nickname turned alter ego who completely dominates any defenders.

He’s done this many times this year, including six games wherein he reached 40 points, and some quarters where he completes takes over. He’s the human embodiment of the NBA2k ‘Takeover’ mechanic.

The knock against Young has been and likely will always be his defense, but even that is improved this season.

As a rook, Trae didn’t seemed too concerned about playing on that side of the court, while this year he can at least stay in front of opposing guards. He can also occasionally jab away a ball for a steal, but it’s safe to say it’ll never be his strong suit.

Verdict:

PG. Atlanta Hawks. TRAE YOUNG. A+. There’s a reason Trae Young is leading all Eastern Conference guards in All-Star voting: He’s great. Ice Trae is one of the NBA’s most feared with the ball in his hands, and at just 21 years old, there’s a lot to like about his future not only for the rest of this season, but for a long time in the future

dark. Next. Get to Know Treveon Graham, who was acquired in the Jeff Teague Deal

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