Grade the trade: Hawks deal Trae Young to Clippers in shocking proposal

The Atlanta Hawks want to contend for a championship. It is why they changed their front office, hired Quinn Snyder, traded John Collins, and tried to acquire Pascal Siakam. The Hawks have two All-Stars and were in the conference finals in 2021. They know they can win, but it may take more roster tweaks.

Atlanta would have no shortage of suitors if they put Trae Young on the block. The two-time All-Star is one of the best offensive point guards in the league. His elite scoring and playmaking are impactful, but there are defensive questions. Can Atlanta win with him?

Ice Trae has been in the rumors, and his name popped up again when he was mentioned as a Lakers target (subscription required). Do the Hawks decide to make sweeping changes before February?

Will the Atlanta Hawks trade Trae Young before the deadline?

Atlanta is not trading Young before the start of the regular season unless something unexpected happens. He is locked up until 2026 and is only 25 years old. The best is still yet to come from the two-time All-Star, and the Hawks have no reason to sell low.

If Atlanta struggles out of the gate, things could change quickly. Dejounte Murray just signed an extension and is capable of being the team’s lead ball-handler and playmaker. The Hawks could look to move on from Young and build the team around Murray.

The LA Clippers need a point guard and are eager to add a star. Could they acquire Trae Young? The Clippers are never shy, but light on assets. What type of package could LA offer?