The Washington Wizards may already be planning their long-term future with Trae Young, even before he has played many games for the team. NBA insider Marc Stein offered a notable update regarding where the Wizards stand on a potential contract extension for Young.
Marc Stein Provides Update on Trae Young’s Contract Extension
Stein reported on his Substack that there is growing belief around the league that Young could secure a two-year contract extension with the Wizards. That scenario could unfold regardless of how much he plays for the remainder of the season.
“There are already rumbles about Young ultimately securing a two-year extension from the Wizards,” Stein wrote, noting that Washington is eager to protect its first-round draft pick, which is top-eight protected.
The Wizards acquired Young from the Atlanta Hawks on Jan. 9, in a trade that sent CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert to Atlanta. The move followed the Hawks’ decision not to offer Young a contract extension, signaling the end of his long tenure with the franchise.
Young currently holds a $49 million player option for the 2026-27 season, which Stein pointed out is useful for Washington. That contract allows the Wizards to comfortably reach the NBA’s salary floor next season while giving them a proven playmaker they have lacked for years.
Stein also added that Young’s presence could provide a boost beyond the court. Once he begins playing, he is expected to bring energy to an arena that has often struggled with attendance and excitement during the rebuild.
Washington sits at 10-27 and remains firmly in rebuilding mode. The team can afford to be patient. If Young exercises his player option, the Wizards would have a full season to evaluate his fit alongside their young core before committing to a longer deal.
So far this season, Young has played just 10 games, averaging 19.3 points and 8.9 assists. Injuries have limited his availability, but the Wizards remain hopeful he can return soon and help stabilize the offense.
According to Grant Afseth of the Dallas Hoops Journal, Washington has interest in signing Young to a three-year extension worth around $120 million. Any extension, however, would begin next season, not immediately.
After the trade, Young hinted at a fresh start in a message on social media.
“It’s time to see what’s possible when the support is real and the vision is clear. We move,” he wrote.
Young may not be able to change Washington’s fortunes right away, but the Wizards appear serious about making him a central part of their future. If an extension does materialize, it would signal strong belief that Young can become the franchise’s cornerstone moving forward.
