Kofi Inkoom
According to Eric Pincus of The Bleacher Report, the Atlanta Hawks are considering moving their star point guard, Trae Young, this summer. Bleacher Report‘s Zach Buckley has proposed a trade idea where the San Antonio Spurs acquire Young from the Hawks.
Buckley’s proposed trade involves:
Spurs sending Keldon Johnson, Malaki Branham, Devonte’ Graham, and two first-round picks (including No. 1) to the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for Trae Young.
Young had an impressive season, averaging 25.7 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 10.8 assists while shooting efficiently from the field, beyond the arc, and the free-throw line.
Buckley believes that acquiring Young would bolster the Spurs’ chances of competing in the crowded Western Conference playoff race.
“If San Antonio wants to gain entry into the West’s crowded playoff race, it needs to find some top-tier talent,” Buckley wrote. “Young certainly fits the bill. The 25-year-old has already booked three All-Star trips and is one of only two players to post career averages of 25 points and nine assists.“ Buckley wrote.
While acknowledging the defensive challenges of a Young-led team, Buckley suggests that Young’s offensive ability, combined with the defensive capabilities of players like Victor Wembanyama, could create a well-rounded team dynamic.
“The challenge with a Young-led team is fielding a competent defense around him, but Wembanyama’s cheat-code abilities on that end might make it happen. And Young, in turn, would simplify things greatly on the offensive end for the Frenchman with his scoring punch, passing vision and gravitational pull on opposing defenses.” Buckley added.
Young, who signed a lucrative extension with the Hawks in 2021, has garnered interest from multiple teams, including the Spurs and the Los Angeles Lakers.
Rich Paul of Klutch Sports Group, who also manages Lakers’ duo LeBron James and Anthony Davis, used to represent Young but parted ways not long ago. Consequently, San Antonio emerges as a perfect destination for the star point guard this summer.
The Spurs need more talent around Victor Wembanyama, the recipient of the 2023-24 Rookie of the Year Award. Young, known as one of the top scorers and passers in the NBA, would undoubtedly enhance San Antonio’s offensive explosiveness.