The Ringer NBA Show Trae Young Traded to the Washington Wizards! Reactions, Grades and More. | Real Ones
Jan 8, 2026
Trae Young's shocking trade to the Wizards sends ripples through the NBA landscape! The hosts dissect whether he actually wanted to join Washington and question the lack of draft picks in the deal. They explore the Hawks' new direction and skepticism about Young’s legacy in Atlanta. With intriguing discussions on his market value and the potential for Atlanta to chase Anthony Davis, the analysis dives deep into the risks and strategies of both teams. It's a whirlwind of insights and future implications!
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Hawks Chose A New Defensive Identity
- The Hawks decided last summer they were ready to move on from Trae Young and shifted toward a younger, defensive identity.
- That front-office choice set the stage for the trade rather than Trae unilaterally demanding a move.
Low Market Demand Shaped The Deal
- The Wizards were the only real suitor for Trae Young, which depressed Atlanta's return and explains the lack of draft picks in the deal.
- That limited market signals to Trae that his trade value and leverage have declined.
Wizards' Pick Protection Creates A Paradox
- Washington still owes the Knicks a 1st-round pick (1-8 protected), so keeping its record poor matters to preserve that asset.
- Adding an all-star like Trae complicates that rebuild because he can both win and push the team away from bottom standings.