The Los Angeles Lakers are entering a critical offseason and Trae Young has long been thought to be one of their primary trade candidates. But according to Lakers insider Jovan Buha, Young’s divorce from Klutch Sports to ‘Creative Artists Agency’ has all but eliminated his chances to don the Purple and Gold.
“James wants to have his contract resolved before he starts practicing at the U.S. men’s Olympic basketball minicamp on July 6 in Las Vegas,” wrote Jovan Buha. “As far as trades go, LAL landing a 3rd star in a deal appears unlikely. Trae Young’s switch from Klutch Sports to CAA makes a trade to them less likely.”
Young, 25, is the star point guard of the Atlanta Hawks. As an elite scorer, passer, and ball handler, Trae is an expert at running an offense and is coming off last season with averages of 25.7 points, 10.8 assists, and 1.3 steals per game on 43% shooting.
After six years with the Haws, Trae’s future is mired in uncertainty after the trade of Dejounte Murray. With his backcourt teammate gone, it leaves Trae alone on the Hawks with nothing but an unproven rookie to help ease the load.
His potential arrival to the Lakers became big news when the team’s interest was revealed but nothing ever materialized and now we know why. As good as Trae is, we all know that Klutch clients get the priority in Los Angeles, especially with LeBron James running the show.
Young ditched Klutch back in May after two years with the agency. While the reasons for his departure are unknown, they have a reputation for prioritizing certain players over others. It’s also no secret that Klutch Sports CEO, Rich Paul, is a longtime friend and associate of LeBron James.
For now, the Lakers will have to look elsewhere for their roster upgrades but finding the right player will be no easy fit. With Mikal Bridges and Paul George off the table, they are running out of time to make a big splash this summer.
As for Trae, the 3x All-Star still has three years and $136 million left on his deal. It will take a massive package for the Hawks to let him go but if they are ready to start fresh, it’s only a matter of time before the right offer comes along.
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