Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young responded to Patrick Beverley’s criticism of his playing style, making clear that his approach to the game is rooted in team success, not individual gain.
In a recent statement, Young said, via HoopsHype, “The numbers generate the way they do. But I promise you — there’s not a selfish bone in my body.” He added that while some expected him to ignore the conversation, he chose to engage directly, saying, “I wanted to play your game — because I know you wanted to react to me and say what you said for attention, for some subscribers, for some likes.”
Young’s comments come at a time when questions about his future in Atlanta continue to grow. ESPN’s Tim MacMahon said on The Hoop Collective that “the long-term outlook for Trae Young in Atlanta is murky at the minimum at this point.”
The 26-year-old has delivered consistent production since entering the league, averaging 25.3 points and 9.8 assists for his career. Last season, he led the NBA in assists at 11.6 per game while also posting 24.2 points.
Despite his impact, Young’s next steps remain uncertain. He is eligible for a four-year, $229 million extension through June 2026, but ESPN’s Bobby Marks reported he is unlikely to pursue negotiations this offseason.
Atlanta’s roster has undergone major changes, with the additions of Kristaps Porzingis, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and Luke Kennard. Dyson Daniels is also in line for a contract extension, leaving the front office to evaluate the group before committing long-term.
“The roster looks good on paper, but we still don’t know how good this Atlanta team potentially could be,” Marks said on NBA Today. The Hawks have not advanced past the first round since their 2021 run to the Eastern Conference Finals.
Meanwhile, Young’s contract structure offers leverage. His $49 million player option for 2026–27 gives him flexibility, and as Jake Fischer of The Stein Line noted, his camp is expected to wait before making any decisions.
