The San Antonio Spurs will soon become a major force in the Western Conference as a budding superstar and 2024 Rookie of the Year winner Victor Wembanyama develops. After posting 21.4 points and 10.6 rebounds per game while leading the league in blocks, Wembanyama had a tremendous rookie campaign but needs significant help next season to improve the team’s poor 22-60 record.
The Spurs need to find Wembanyama a new point guard and Trae Young could be the answer. The Atlanta Hawks point guard is an All-Star when it comes to scoring and passing the ball, posting 25.7 points and 10.8 assists per game this season, and can be acquired in a blockbuster deal this summer.
Trade Details
San Antonio Spurs Receive: Trae Young
Atlanta Hawks Receive: Keldon Johnson, Devonte Graham, No. 8 Draft Pick, 2025 First-Round Pick (CHA), 2026 First-Round Pick (SAS), 2028 First-Round Pick (BOS)
This trade will form a new dynamic duo in the Western Conference and could be a distinct possibility this summer, so we will break it down for the Spurs and Hawks.
The Best Possible Point Guard For Victor Wembanyama
At just 25 years old, Trae Young is entering the prime of his career and brings elite playmaking and scoring abilities to the Spurs. His dynamic offensive game, characterized by his exceptional shooting range and ability to create scoring opportunities, perfectly complements Wembanyama’s versatile skill set.
As a big man with a unique blend of size, agility, and shooting touch, Wembanyama will benefit immensely from Young’s ability to orchestrate the offense and draw defensive attention, creating easier scoring opportunities for the towering Frenchman. Integrating Trae Young into a roster that already includes promising talent like Devin Vassell further enhances the Spurs’ outlook. Vassell, known for his potential and improving offensive game (19.5 PPG, 4.1 APG, 1.1 SPG), will provide a solid two-way presence on the wing, balancing the backcourt alongside Young.
This trio forms a promising core for the Spurs, with Vassell’s ability to guard multiple positions and Wembanyama’s defensive potential acting as a counterbalance to Young’s offensive focus. This mix of young talent could accelerate the Spurs’ rebuilding process, positioning them as a formidable team in the Western Conference for years to come.
Under the tutelage of Gregg Popovich, one of the most renowned coaches in NBA history, there’s a strong belief that Young can further develop into a more well-rounded player, particularly on the defensive end. Wembanyama and Young’s “little-big” duo, supported by a solid cast including Vassell, could herald a new era of success for the Spurs, with Young’s prime aligning perfectly with Wembanyama’s development trajectory.
Atlanta Hawks Rebuild Without Trae Young
The Atlanta Hawks are poised for a major rebuild with the departure of Trae Young. The likely selection of Alexandre Sarr with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft marks the beginning of a new era. Sarr’s potential as a franchise cornerstone offers the Hawks a unique opportunity to reset their timeline and focus on developing young talent. Alongside Sarr, the Hawks will also benefit from the No. 8 draft pick, giving them another high-potential player to integrate into their system.
In addition to the immediate draft benefits, the Hawks acquire multiple first-round picks from the trade with the Spurs, including selections in 2025, 2026, and 2028. These assets provide the Hawks with flexibility and leverage in future drafts and trade negotiations. The picks offer the potential to draft key players with plenty of time to build in the East.
This trade also aligns with ongoing speculation and trade rumors that have surrounded Trae Young throughout the season. With Young’s departure, the Hawks can fully embrace a rebuilding phase, potentially moving other veterans like Clint Capela to maximize their return on assets. Capela’s trade could bring additional young talent and draft picks, further accelerating the rebuild.
What Grade Should This Trade Be?
San Antonio Spurs: A
Acquiring Trae Young is a game-changer for the Spurs and this deal deserves an A grade. Young is an elite playmaker and scorer who can elevate the team’s offensive capabilities instantly. Pairing him with the Spurs’ existing young talent, including Victor Wembanyama, creates a formidable duo that can compete in the Western Conference for years to come.
Acquiring a proven star like Trae Young justifies the cost. Young’s presence will attract other high-caliber players to San Antonio, enhancing the team’s overall appeal and competitiveness with a chance to enter the playoffs in Wembanyama’s second season. This bold move showcases the Spurs’ ambition to return to championship contention sooner rather than later, and we could be seeing the start of the best little-big duo since Chris Paul and Blake Griffin with the potential to be possibly as good as John Stockton and Karl Malone.
Atlanta Hawks: B-
For the Atlanta Hawks, trading Trae Young marks the beginning of a new chapter and earns a B- grade. The Hawks secure a substantial return, including Keldon Johnson, Devonte Graham, and three valuable first-round picks. Johnson adds versatility and scoring, fitting well into a rebuilding team, while Graham provides veteran presence and depth. The No. 8 draft pick in 2024, along with the additional future picks, offers significant long-term potential for the Hawks to rebuild their roster strategically.
However, trading away a talent like Trae Young is a gamble, and the immediate loss of his star power and offensive production cannot be understated. While the future assets provide hope for rebuilding, there is inherent risk involved in draft picks and player development. The B- grade reflects the potential upside but also acknowledges the challenges and uncertainties that come with such a significant transition.
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