Since Trae Young came back, the Hawks have suffered six consecutive defeats and currently hold a 15-18 record, placing them tenth in the East...

Watching from the screen, one can’t help but feel secondhand embarrassment for someone.

Data shows that in the six games since Trae Young’s return, the Hawks have conceded over 125 points each game. To be blunt, he’s now a negative factor, and the front office is aware, expressing a stronger desire than ever to trade him away.

Trae Young, born September 19, 1998, is a 1.88-meter point guard, the fifth pick in the 2018 first round. This season, he’s averaging 28 minutes per game with 19.3 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 8.9 assists, shooting 41.5% overall and 30.5% from three—both career lows since his rookie year. At this point, he’s essentially ineffective on both offense and defense.

It’s worth mentioning,Although Trae Young’s current contract runs through 2027, he has a player option next summer to opt out and become a free agent early. The Hawks have no intention of signing him to a four-year, $229 million max extension ahead of schedule.To avoid losing this four-time All-Star guard for nothing, it’s best to part ways before the trade deadline next year (February 6, Beijing time).

Besides targeting Trae Young,the Hawks also plan to package 2024 first overall pick Richaun Holmes (earning $13.2 million this season), Kristaps Porziņģis (in a contract year, $30.73 million), and Kennard (contract year, $11 million) to send to the Mavericks in exchange for Anthony Davis ($54.13 million)—of course, including some draft picks as well.

Richaun Holmes, a 2.03-meter wing, is one of the least impactful recent number one picks. His sophomore season performance is even worse than his rookie year, so it’s no surprise the Hawks want to move him. But switching teams might finally unlock his potential; changing environment can mean new life.

By the way, the Hawks hold the Pelicans’ 2026 unprotected first-round pick. Since the Pelicans are currently last in the West, the Hawks have a good chance to secure another top pick in the 2026 draft, which is expected to be a star-studded class filled with multiple potential franchise cornerstones.

In summary, the Hawks are about to undergo major changes and will be one of the most closely watched teams in the upcoming trade market.
