Patrick Beverley took direct aim at Trae Young during the latest episode of The Pat Bev Pod, questioning the Atlanta Hawks star’s leadership and postseason record.
“I don’t think he’s won enough to even speak to me,” Beverley said. “He’s been to the playoffs three times. I’ve been to the playoffs nine. My first seven years, I didn’t miss the playoffs at all.”
The veteran guard also claimed that players around the league have voiced doubts about Young’s leadership. “I’ve talked to people who played in Atlanta. They don’t wanna play there. Why? They don’t think he’s a good leader. They don’t think he’s a good teammate,” Beverley added.
Beverley, known for his outspoken personality and defensive edge, emphasized that production means little without postseason success. “You can make all the money you want. You can have all the leading assists you want. You can do all that. If you don’t win, that sh*t won’t matter. If you don’t win, when you retire they’re gonna forget your name,” he said.
The comments come at a time when Young’s future in Atlanta faces increasing scrutiny. ESPN’s Tim MacMahon recently described the guard’s long-term outlook with the Hawks as “murky,” despite his status as one of the NBA’s top playmakers.
Since leading Atlanta to the 2021 Eastern Conference Finals, the team has failed to move past the first round in three straight seasons. Young, 26, remains the focal point of the offense after averaging 24.2 points and a league-best 11.6 assists last season.
However, the Hawks’ playoff struggles and roster turnover have raised questions about the franchise’s direction. Young is eligible for a four-year, $229 million extension through June 2026, but reports indicate he is not expected to pursue negotiations this summer.
Atlanta has attempted to retool around Young, acquiring Kristaps Porzingis, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and Luke Kennard, while evaluating whether the group can contend in the Eastern Conference. Still, front-office decisions over the next two years may determine whether Young commits to staying long-term.
