The Zach Lowe Show The End of the Trae Young Era in Atlanta. Plus, All-Star Predictions!
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Jan 8, 2026 
Rob Mahoney, a basketball writer and analyst, joins to dissect the recent trade of Trae Young to the Wizards. They delve into the implications for both teams, weighing Trae's potential impact against the Hawks' need for salary cap flexibility. The conversation also explores Anthony Davis's fit with Atlanta and the missed opportunities of the past. Shifting gears, they predict the upcoming All-Star rosters, debating key player selections like Devin Booker and outlining MVP candidates, including Jalen Brown's rise.
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Trae Young Era Ends, Hawks Sold Low
- The Hawks traded Trae Young to the Wizards for expiring contracts and cap flexibility, signalling the end of an era in Atlanta.
- Zach Lowe and Rob Mahoney agree Atlanta sold low and could have gotten better return earlier.
Trae Could Help Or Hinder Wizard Prospects
- Trae Young will uplift Washington's offense but risks stunting young players' development by hogging touches.
- The Wizards can control outcomes via his contract extension decision and playing time management.
Wizards Balancing Competitiveness And Draft Protection
- Washington traded for Trae partly to create immediate competitiveness while preserving some summer cap space.
- They likely aim to win roughly 32 games and still retain draft flexibility tied to protections.