The Atlanta Hawks’ 2024–25 season ended in disappointment after consecutive losses in the play-in tournament. They were first routed by the Orlando Magic, 120–95, on April 15, then suffered a heartbreaking 123–114 overtime defeat to the Miami Heat on April 18—crushing their playoff hopes.
As Hawks fans were still reeling from the early exit, new reports from an NBA insider about star guard Trae Young’s future have started to make waves.
Fans Have Mixed Reactions Regarding Trae Young’s Contract Extension
Recently on X, NBA insider Evan Sidery reported that Young is eligible to sign a four-year, $229 million extension this summer.
Trae Young becomes eligible to sign a four-year, $229 million extension this summer.
A pivotal moment for the Hawks and Young to decide if they want to continue forward.
Young has one guaranteed year left under contract in Atlanta before holding a player option for 2026-27. pic.twitter.com/PtIsfLBYjb
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) April 19, 2025
Naturally, the news sparked immediate reactions from fans.
Currently, Young is already on a massive deal. In August 2021, he signed a five-year, $215.16 million designated rookie max extension with the Hawks. Initially valued at $172 million, the contract ballooned thanks to Young’s All-NBA honors in 2021–22, triggering the Rose Rule clause.
With that kind of money already committed, many fans argue there’s no need to rush into another monster extension.
“Hard pass,” wrote one fan bluntly.
Hard pass https://t.co/U5kzkf7ZK5
— Ken Weinman (@KenWeinmanSport) April 19, 2025
During the first Play-In game against the Orlando Magic on April 15 Young was ejected in the fourth quarter after throwing the ball at a referee. Though he managed to score 28 points before the incident, the ejection seemed to symbolize a boiling point.
Fans now wonder if that moment will be remembered as the end of Young’s chapter in Atlanta.
“I honestly really think after he got ejected in the play in tournament that he played his last game as a hawk,” said one user.
I honestly rlly think after he got ejected in the play in tournament that he played his last game as a hawk
— metsknicksforlife (@kayneswolfers) April 19, 2025
Young is only 26 years old and still producing elite numbers. This regular season he produced 24.2 points and 11.6 assists per game. His playmaking, scoring ability, and durability make him a highly valuable asset in today’s NBA.
For a team trying to build a contender, letting go of a franchise-caliber point guard would be a bold and potentially regrettable move and a fan was quick to touch on it.
“Chicago should absolutely trade for Trae if Atlanta makes him available, though I can’t imagine why they would given his age, relative health, and team construction,” wrote the user.
Chicago should absolutely trade for Trae if Atlanta makes him available though I can’t imagine why they would given his age, relative health, and team construction. https://t.co/0iIyBdFtmP
— Lee Edwards (@Mario_Demiuex) April 19, 2025
While most fans were giving mixed reactions to the news of Young’s possible extension, one fan was bold enough to cut through the noise and say it plainly that the Hawks shouldn’t let go of Young.
“IDK if it’ll be for that much, but I fully expect an extension to happen this summer, whether fans like it or not. Despite the narratives, neither Trae nor the team has shown they wanna move on. & if they did, I don’t think the market would be out there for Trae for multiple reasons,” wrote the followers.
IDK if it’ll be for that much but I fully expect an extension to happen this summer whether fans like it or not.
Despite the narratives neither Trae nor the team has shown they wanna move on. & if they did I dont think the market would be out there for Trae for multiple reasons https://t.co/pX2ZOYqFTO
— Reg (@REGGIES_WORLD) April 19, 2025
Atlanta is at a crossroads. They’ve got a star player in his prime, but the team continues to fall short of expectations. One thing is certain that the Young debate isn’t going anywhere this offseason.
Trae Young Talks About His ‘Failure’ After Miami Heat Matchup
Hawks fans were left stunned after their team was knocked out of playoff contention following a heartbreaking loss to the Heat. With the postseason within reach, many believed the Hawks had a real shot—but the dream came to an abrupt end.
Trae Young has since opened up about the crushing moment, calling it a personal “failure” in the aftermath of Friday night’s defeat. In a candid post-game interview on April 18, Young didn’t shy away from taking responsibility.
“Not making the playoffs is a failure for me. No matter who is out there. No matter how much adversity with injuries we’ve had to face. I still feel like we’ve had a good enough group to make the playoffs and at least go in there and compete… People know how much I really care about winning. If you really, really know me that’s all I care about,” said Young during the interview.
Still, Young didn’t go down without a fight. On Friday night he delivered an impressive performance, scoring 29 points, dishing out 11 assists, and grabbing 5 rebounds. One thing is certain: with his competitive spirit and drive, Young will be coming back stronger than ever next season.