Brian Windhorst & The Hoop Collective Best Spot For Trae Young + Knicks & Thunder Struggles
13 snips
Jan 7, 2026 The hosts dive into Trae Young's potential trade, with the Wizards seen as a leading destination. They discuss the Knicks' struggles and James Dolan's high expectations, leading to coaching changes. Oklahoma City's recent performance is scrutinized, particularly following a surprising loss. KD's clutch shot sparks conversation about his vindication, while the latest All-Star voting throws some surprises into the mix. The dynamics of team strategies and player development are at the forefront throughout the discussion.
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Trae Young Fit And Contract Problem
- Trae Young and the Hawks appear mutually ready to part ways due to fit and contract concerns.
- His $49M player option makes him hard to trade for long-term value despite being an All-Star-level player.
How The Wizards Might Approach Trae
- Washington could use Trae as an offensive engine or a short-term expiring asset to flip next summer.
- Teams should negotiate for picks or protections when absorbing his large option to balance future flexibility.
Market Depth Dampens Trade Value
- Point guard and center are the deepest positions, shrinking the market for trade-demand at those spots.
- That depth plus high, awkward contracts reduces teams willing to pay premium assets for a move now.