The Atlanta Hawks have officially traded four-time All-Star Trae Young to the Washington Wizards for CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert, as first reported earlier this week. The deal provides salary cap relief for the 18-21 Hawks, who sit ninth in the East and could pivot to buyers before the February 5, 2026, deadline.
Confirming initial reports, the Hawks executed the blockbuster trade on Wednesday, parting ways with Young—their former franchise cornerstone drafted in 2018. In return, Atlanta acquires veteran scorer McCollum and sharpshooter Kispert, assets expected to fit seamlessly into the team's offense and yield significant salary flexibility heading into the 2026 trade deadline.
Sitting four games out of fifth place in the Eastern Conference, the Hawks prioritize long-term contention but have options to bolster the current roster. League sources indicate interest in Los Angeles Lakers star Anthony Davis, despite his age, injury concerns, and $54.1 million salary ahead of a potential four-year, $275 million extension.
The move highlights a fluid NBA landscape, with the Milwaukee Bucks (16-21) expected to retain Giannis Antetokounmpo while pursuing additions like Michael Porter Jr., Jerami Grant, Zach LaVine, or Malik Monk—though limited by draft assets. Trade grades have favored Atlanta (B+), underscoring the deal's strategic value for both contenders and rebuilders.
