While Trae Young's offensive brilliance shines, his defensive liabilities and massive contract make him a risky proposition for the Miami Heat.
As the league is less than a month away from the trade deadline, rumors will begin to spread, some more than others. However, there are some notable candidates available, including Atlanta Hawks point guard Trae Young. He was drafted in 2018 with the fifth pick, originally by the Dallas Mavericks, before the infamous Luka Doncic swap. The Texas native grew into an outstanding player, being named an All-Star four times, and leading the league in assists after the 2025 season.
However, the main issue has been the lack of winning. The Hawks showed a glimpse of true competitiveness in 2021, reaching the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2015. They would fall against the Milwaukee Bucks after six games, although Young would suffer a right ankle injury late in the series. Granted, the other side was without Giannis Antetokounmpo, who missed the final two games of the series due to a hyperextended knee injury.
After that run, the Hawks have made the playoffs twice, losing in the first round both times. The organization has made attempts to regain competitiveness, trading for defensive guard Dejounte Murray, which amounted to nothing, and acquiring Kristaps Porzingis in a blockbuster three-team deal during the offseason. However, the European center has only appeared in 16 games thus far, battling injuries and an illness.
The Hawks have hung on for too long and are finally letting go of the rope. It's been reported that the organization and Young's representation are working towards a trade. These events seemed inevitable, especially after there were no signs of a contract extension getting done.
The Washington Wizards have been mentioned as a serious landing destination. However, this is someone that the Miami Heat should steer clear of. A franchise that's built its foundation on defense, acquiring one of the worst in the league, is not exactly an ideal match. There's no doubt in Young's offensive talent, but given his 6-2 frame, that can only take a team so far. Also, it would be a massive financial commitment.
The 27-year-old is making nearly $46 million this season, with a $48.97 million player option for the following year. Just matching salaries would cost the Heat more than they'd be willing to pay. The last time two teams agreed on a trade within the same division was the 2024 offseason, when the Brooklyn Nets acquired four unprotected first-round picks, plus some, from the New York Knicks in exchange for Mikal Bridges.
Also, the Heat already has a couple of point guards in Davion Mitchell and Dru Smith, who fit better defensively and financially. Both of their salaries combined are cheaper than Young's by roughtly $32.01 million. The former third-team All-NBA guard has been linked to the Heat before; it might happen again until he's traded, but it should never be official between them.
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