NBA Trade Rumors: Trae Young’s Hawks Future Remains in Doubt As 2 Potential Suitors Emerge

The Atlanta Hawks did not have a strong 2024–25 season. After trading Dejounte Murray to the New Orleans Pelicans, many believed the Hawks were doomed from the start. Their star point guard, Trae Young, continued to play at a high level, but it just wasn’t enough.

Atlanta managed to finish as the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference heading into the play-in tournament, but expectations were low. They had the benefit of hosting at least one play-in game. After a tough loss to the Orlando Magic in the first game, the Hawks were then upset by the No. 10 seed Miami Heat—losing their shot at the playoffs entirely.

Following those back-to-back losses, questions began to swirl about the future of the team, particularly the future of Trae Young. The All-Star guard has been the face of the Hawks franchise since arriving in 2018, but now, he may be ready for a fresh start.

While many teams are already set at the point guard position, others would surely jump at the chance to acquire a player like Young—a four-time All-Star, All-NBA selection, and the NBA’s assist leader this season.

Could the Houston Rockets or Orlando Magic Be Interested in Trae Young?

Young, who averaged 24.2 points and 11.6 assists this season, could end up on the trade block this offseason—especially if the Hawks decide to initiate a full rebuild. While the team managed to stay in the play-in mix despite shedding key players, it felt as though they were already trending in that direction.

Now that the offseason has arrived, the question is: Will Atlanta move on from Young and send him to a team better suited to maximize his talents?

In a recent Substack post, NBA insider Marc Stein linked Young to the Orlando Magic and the Houston Rockets—two rising squads in need of a true floor general.

Adding Young to Orlando’s core, which includes Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero, could elevate the Magic’s offense significantly. While Young’s defense has long been a weakness, Orlando’s team-wide defensive strength could help offset that liability and make the pairing work.

As for the Rockets, while they currently have Fred VanVleet, Young is a more dynamic and consistent offensive weapon. Like Orlando, Houston’s swarming defense could complement Young and provide balance. It could be a win-win fit.

Should the Hawks Trade Trae Young?

While many Hawks fans still support Young, it’s clear the organization and its franchise star may no longer be on the same page. Young wants to compete for a championship, while the team appears to be prioritizing long-term development.

Both the Rockets and Magic have young talent with sizable contracts—meaning there’s a path for a potential deal that could bring Atlanta some future assets in return.

Will the Hawks actually trade Trae Young this offseason? Time will tell, but the conversations are heating up.