Trae Young is said to have the Washington Wizards at the top of his list as he and the Atlanta Hawks work toward a potential trade.
At the moment, the Wizards are the only team known to be seriously engaged, giving them a clear edge in the process.
Shams Charania noted on NBA Today that discussions are advancing, saying there is traction toward a possible deal.
Atlanta, however, has continued to explore other trade avenues, keeping its options open.
Young’s contract plays a major role in the talks. He holds a $49 million player option for next season, which could make him an expiring deal if exercised or allow him to enter free agency if he opts out.
An opt-out scenario would also create roughly $40 million in cap space for the Hawks.
Drafted in 2018 after Atlanta traded down with Dallas, Young has been the franchise centerpiece for years.
He led the Hawks to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2022 and earned All-NBA honors, though recent seasons have been uneven.
Injuries have also slowed him this year, with a right MCL sprain earlier in the season and a current absence due to a right quad contusion.
Washington’s interest is strengthened by front-office ties, as former Hawks executive Travis Schlenk now works with Michael Winger and Will Dawkins.
From a basketball standpoint, Young’s playmaking and scoring could provide structure and growth for the Wizards’ young core.
Trae Young Has Wizards As Top Choice With Sides Having 'Traction' On Deal https://t.co/4Bb6tqoZFM
— RealGM (@RealGM) January 7, 2026
