Trae Young continues to rehab MCL and quad injuries in the same leg and is expected to be re-evaluated after the mid-February All-Star break, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
The Washington Wizards are proceeding carefully with their newly acquired guard, prioritizing long-term health over a quick return.
Young has appeared in just 10 games this season, averaging 19.3 points and 8.9 assists in 28.0 minutes, a limited workload that reflects both the injuries and Washington’s cautious approach.
That patience also aligns with Washington’s draft outlook. The Wizards owe the New York Knicks a 2026 first-round pick, but it carries top-eight protection.
Finishing near the bottom of the standings would allow Washington to keep that selection and send two second-round picks instead, giving the franchise a clear incentive to avoid short-term gains.
Young was acquired to be a foundational piece, but his injury timeline means his first season in Washington will be fragmented.
In the meantime, younger players are seeing expanded roles, gaining experience while the team potentially improves its lottery odds.
The 26-year-old holds a $49 million player option for the 2026–27 season and is positioned as a long-term cornerstone after the Atlanta Hawks declined to extend him last offseason, leading to the trade.
While he currently ranks as the NBA’s 10th highest-paid point guard by average value, league sources do not expect his next contract to reach full max territory.
Trae Young Out Until After All-Star Break With MCL, Quad Injuries https://t.co/gwzUsTTdm6
— RealGM (@RealGM) January 14, 2026
