The Atlanta Hawks officially closed the book on one of the most electrifying chapters in franchise history on January 9, 2026, trading four-time All-Star point guard Trae Young to the Washington Wizards in exchange for veteran guard CJ McCollum and forward Corey Kispert.

The move marks the end of Youngs tenure with the team that selected him fifth overall in the 2018 NBA Draft, a run that saw him become the franchises all-time leader in three-pointers with 1,295 and assists with 4,837. Over 493 regular-season games in Atlanta, Young averaged an impressive 25.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 9.8 assists per game.

The writing had been on the wall since the Hawks declined to extend Young during the offseason, instead committing $162 million in four-year contracts to guards Dyson Daniels and Nickeil Alexander-Walker. The statistical reality only reinforced the organizations direction: Atlanta posted a 2-8 record this season with Young in the lineup compared to 16-13 without him.

For Young, the trade represents a fresh start and a reunion with a familiar face. Washington Wizards executive Travis Schlenk was the architect who originally brought Young to Atlanta in a draft-night trade back in 2018. The chance to work with Schlenk again, combined with Washingtons flexibility and his status as the teams clear centerpiece, made the Wizards Youngs preferred destination.

The financial implications of the deal are significant. Young is currently in the fourth year of a five-year, $215 million contract, earning $46 million this season with a player option worth approximately $49 million for the 2026-27 campaign. For the Wizards, who were projected to enter the offseason with $80 million in cap space, absorbing that salary was not a concern. Additionally, by sending Kispert to Atlanta, Washington cleared $14 million from their books.

Youngs legacy in Atlanta remains secure despite the unceremonious ending. He led the Hawks on a memorable run to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021, captivating fans with his fearless shot-making and theatrical flair. His ability to hit deep three-pointers and orchestrate the offense made him one of the most entertaining players in the league during his prime years.

Hawks teammate Mouhamed Gueye offered a heartfelt tribute to the departing star. When I first got here, he was one of the first guys that texted me, welcoming me to the city, Gueye said. An Atlanta legend.

No draft picks changed hands in the transaction, making this a straightforward swap of talent and contracts. For Atlanta, McCollum brings veteran leadership and scoring punch, while Kispert provides three-point shooting and depth on the wing. Both players will be expected to contribute immediately as the Hawks continue their rebuilding process.

In Washington, Young now faces the challenge of revitalizing a franchise that has struggled in recent years. With his playmaking ability and scoring prowess, combined with the organizational support he sought, the 27-year-old guard has an opportunity to write a new chapter in his career. Whether he can elevate the Wizards into playoff contention remains to be seen, but the potential for a fresh start has never been more apparent.