After weeks of reporting and rumors, Trae Young has been officially traded to the Washington Wizards. One of the most capable players in the NBA, Young made a name for himself with the Atlanta Hawks, becoming a household name in the city as he led them to multiple playoff appearances.
Johnson Shares Thoughts on Trae Young’s Next Step
The analysts and fans theorized that Young’s time in Atlanta was coming to an end, leaving several loyal fans heartbroken. And while there were questions about Young’s place with his team, former teammate Jalen Johnson only had good things to say.
While Young’s trade to the Wizards wasn’t unexpected, it’s an emotional departure for fans and Young’s longtime teammates. After all, Atlanta will always be a part of his NBA legacy. In a recent interview with the media, Johnson spoke about Young’s time with the Hawks, highlighting how great a teammate he was.
“I mean Trae was great. He’s great to have around and just from day one he always showed me love, very appreciative of the time we spent together. And everything he has done for this organization,” Johnson said. “…I’m excited for him in his next step in Washington.”
Having said that, Johnson also discussed the fact that while Young’s departure was monumental, it’s just how the league works.
“He always cared about his teammates despite what everybody said. He was somebody that loved to make everybody around him better. So I think that’s one of the things that I picked up early from him when we talked about it as a team. He said what he said and yeah, it’s kind of emotional but that’s just the business of it. I think everybody understands that at the end of the day.”
With the Hawks since his draft in 2018, Young has averaged 25.2 points, 9.8 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game in his career.
Young’s Wizards Debut Might Take Some Time
Although the idea of Young debuting with another team is exciting, one can’t deny that the Wizards will be careful about their new star’s recent right quad contusion.
“Trae Young will be evaluated after joining the Wizards,” NBA insider Michael Sotto reported. “Washington will cautiously proceed with Young after his previous MCL & current quad injuries. Washington has the fourth-worst record, which would guarantee retaining their top-eight protected pick if they hold this standing.”
Considering the Wizards’ 10-26 win-loss record and 14th spot in the Eastern Conference, the team may not play Young this season, effectively maintaining a potential lottery pick for the 2026 NBA Draft.
