Trae Young’s future with the Atlanta Hawks is quickly becoming one of the most intriguing storylines in the NBA. According to Jake Fischer, Young and his camp have long been prepared for the possibility of playing out the final guaranteed year of his current contract rather than locking into another extension.
That contract, worth over $200 million, has two years remaining with a $49 million player option for the 2026-27 season. If Young declines that option and performs at the elite level he believes he and the Hawks can reach this season, he could enter the summer of 2026 as one of the league’s most sought-after free agents.
The 26-year-old point guard remains one of the NBA’s premier offensive talents. In the 2024-25 season, Young averaged 24.2 points and an NBA-leading 11.6 assists per game while shooting 41.1% from the field.
In the last three seasons, he has consistently posted over 24 points and 10 assists per year, placing him in rare company historically.
His offensive brilliance, deep shooting range, elite playmaking, and ability to run an offense have made him the face of the Hawks since being drafted in 2018.
However, the Hawks’ team success during Young’s tenure has been limited. Atlanta has made the playoffs just three times in its seven seasons, with one magical Eastern Conference Finals run in 2021 standing as the lone deep postseason push.
The other two appearances ended in first-round exits, and the Hawks have missed the playoffs four times. That lack of sustained winning has raised questions about whether Atlanta can build a true contender around its franchise player, especially as the team transitions to a younger roster featuring Zaccharie Risacher, Dyson Daniels, and Jalen Johnson.
The uncertainty is compounded by reports of Young’s frustration with the front office. Marc J. Spears revealed that the Hawks’ new leadership group has yet to offer him a max extension, despite his eligibility for a four-year, $229 million deal this summer. Young reportedly expected a show of faith from Atlanta, and its absence has led to speculation that he could explore the open market.
With two years left on his deal and the player option looming, the Hawks risk losing leverage if Young enters unrestricted free agency.
For rival teams, the prospect of adding Young is tantalizing. His defensive limitations and smaller frame have long been scrutinized, but his offensive production more than compensates in the right system.
A team with strong defensive infrastructure and established scoring threats could give Young the ideal environment to thrive, something Atlanta has struggled to provide consistently.
If Young hits the 2026 free agent market, he would immediately become one of the biggest names available, capable of reshaping the trajectory of a franchise.
Whether the Hawks ultimately secure his long-term future or allow him to test the waters, the next two seasons will define not only his career path but also the direction of the Atlanta franchise. Right now, all signs point to Young betting on himself, and the basketball world will be watching closely.
