The Atlanta Hawks haven’t had the season that fans expected of them after their Eastern Conference Finals appearance. They are only 14-16, and 11th in the Eastern Conference. Even though the Hawks themselves currently have a paltry record, superstar Trae Young has had an insanely good season on an individual level. Trae Young is averaging 27.3 PPG and 9.3 APG this year, and it’s clear that he has been a force on the offensive end of the floor.
Every superstar has something that separates them from the rest of the crowd. Trae Young is no different. On a recent episode of JJ Redick’s The Old Man and the Three podcast, Hawks forward John Collins was asked about what Trae Young’s “X-Factor” is. Collins stated that Trae Young’s immense confidence is what separates him from everyone else. (43:00)
Confidence is a powerful thing, and he’s ultra confident. Not only cause he’s put in the work… to be ultra confident and to play that way is powerful.
Him thriving in fourth quarters, him wanting the ball. Having somebody that wants the ball is powerful. That adds urgency to the game. More than anything, you know that you have somebody on the opposite court who wants the ball at the end of the game, or wants that moment, wants that spotlight moment. Wants that tough shot. It gives you confidence as a team.
There is no doubt that Trae Young’s confidence is always high, and that he “wants that spotlight moment” as John Collins states. He’s had some notable moments in the playoffs already, such as hitting a game-winner against the New York Knicks in Madison Square Garden.
The Atlanta Hawks will need to improve in the near future to make the playoffs again. They have the talent to make the playoffs, and one shouldn’t count against them as long as Trae Young remains at the helm.
