The Washington Wizards made a significant move Wednesday night, acquiring four-time All-Star Trae Young from the Atlanta Hawks in a blockbuster trade that sent veteran guard CJ McCollum and former first-round pick Corey Kispert to Atlanta.
While the deal itself wasn’t entirely unexpected, McCollum’s inclusion came as a surprise. The veteran guard had been impressing in his first season with Washington, but despite the abrupt change, the former Pelicans star is embracing the opportunity ahead of him.
CJ McCollum Excited To Play For Atlanta Hawks
Young, a four-time All-Star who led Atlanta to the 2021 Conference Finals, was moved as his impact waned and the Hawks pivoted to a new core ahead of his looming $49 million player option. For Washington, it’s a statement move, betting on Young as the franchise face while chasing a play-in push.
McCollum, meanwhile, had nothing but appreciation for his brief stint with the Wizards and expressed excitement about the opportunity in Atlanta.
“Loved my time in DC,” he said, via Chris Haynes. “Organization was great for my family and me. Michael Winger and Will [Dawkins] did everything they said they would and kept their word from the very beginning. Love the city, and they’re doing things the right way over there.
“Excited to get to The A and get to work. Very familiar with their style of play. Love the ownership group and front office. Good group of players.”
CJ McCollum to me on trade to Atlanta: “Loved my time in DC. Organization was great to my family and I. Michael Winger and Will [Dawkins] did everything they said they would and kept their word from the very beginning. Love the city and they’re doing things the right way over…
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) January 8, 2026
While McCollum has seen his star fade since he was traded from Portland, he’s still having a typically strong year, averaging 18.8 points, 3.6 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game this season. He is shooting 45.4% from the floor and 39.3% from beyond the arc.
He can handle the ball well and still shoot effectively, providing an upgrade in shot creation. Additionally, the 34-year-old is a strong, veteran leader and may offer better leadership than Young’s questionable leadership in the locker room.
Atlanta is also optimistic about Kispert’s fit. The former Gonzaga standout has carved out a role as a reliable catch-and-shoot threat, and while his NBA career has yet to take off fully, the Hawks view him as a potential breakout candidate at 26.
Kispert is averaging 9.2 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.7 assists while shooting 49.6% from the field and 39.5% from beyond the arc. With Young’s recent shooting struggles, adding two efficient perimeter shooters could significantly improve Atlanta’s spacing and bolster its playoff push.