The Atlanta Hawks clearly do not view Trae Young as their superstar building block after they did not even talk about an extension (subscription required) this offseason. The four-time All-Star can decline his player option and become an unrestricted free agent next summer. It could turn into a nightmare for the Hawks if they don’t extend him, but the franchise appears to be signing up for that bet.
Young is eligible for a gigantic four-year $229 million extension. De’Aaron Fox just signed the same deal with the Spurs, despite being a one-time All-Star. Luka Doncic opted for a three-year deal to hit free agency again with ten years of service. The Hawks’ star didn’t even get an offer after recruiting multiple players to Atlanta this summer.
It appears the plan is to play out this season and resume talks in the 2026 offseason. The Hawks get a head start in negotiations with Young, but Jake Fischer already reported his disappointment. The new front office is risking souring their relationship with the team’s star. Clearly, Atlanta is not valuing him as an integral part of their plans.
Hawks' stance on Trae Young is crystal clear
Young is a divisive player. The 26-year-old is one of the best playmakers in the world and an abysmal defender. Atlanta has missed the playoffs two straight years with him leading their charge. Even after their upgrades, the front office has the right to be skeptical. Young got the Hawks to the conference finals in 2021, but hasn’t sniffed that success since.
The new front office is forcing him into a prove-it season. Young wants a max contract. He can earn it with another All-NBA campaign where he leads the Hawks on a deep playoff run in a weak Eastern Conference. They have the roster around him to do it. Young must find new gear and maximize everyone.
This could backfire if Young demands a trade like De’Aaron Fox did last season. Nothing is out of the question as Ice Trae is playing for his future. If things are going south, he may look to get out before the trade deadline.
The Atlanta Hawks are not viewing Trae Young as their superstar moving forward. Their refusal to even offer an extension makes that crystal clear. The four-time All-Star is still leading their roster, but a breakup could come quickly. The new front office is not putting their full faith in Young. Only time will tell if that is a wise decision.
Hawks fans should expect to see the best version of Trae Young this season. He is playing for a max contract, whether it is in Atlanta or somewhere else. The Hawks should have an elite offense. Will it be enough to make them serious contenders and keep Young with the franchise? Stay tuned to find out.