The Washington Wizards could end up locking up Trae Young to a new long-term deal this upcoming summer.
The Washington Wizards have limped through the final stage of the 2025-26 season with the focus on underlying developments from individual players rather than winning and success, a signal in the organization's rebuild efforts. The Wizards have have failed to win at least 25% of their games in each of the last two seasons with that remaining a possibility in year two under head coach Brian Keefe with the team standing 16-43 ahead of Monday night's contest against the Houston Rockets.
Soon, the attention will shift toward whether fans will be able to watch either Anthony Davis or Anthony Davis make their Wizards debut, though general manager Will Dawkins. has remained consistent that both are expected to play at some point this season after previously noting it is "highly likely" that both make their return to the floor this season. While that addresses the short term question for the Wizards, the long-term answer is how the newest trade acquisitions fit into the make-up of the Wizards' identity in 2026-27 and how they fit into the plan. According to Marc Stein of The Stein Report, at least Young remains expected to be part of the Wizards' future.
Stein reported on Monday afternoon that the Wizards and Trae Young are expected to reach a three year contract extension this upcoming summer.
Young is entering the final season of his five year, $215 million contract with Young reportedly initially prioritizing being traded to a team who is likely to agree to a contract extension, which is what opened the door for Washington to make a move roughly one month ahead of the NBA trade deadline.
But big picture, Young would serve as a boost to a backcourt that could return both Bub Carrington and Tre Johnson in 2026-27 with hopes that Washington can elevate into a playoff contender, officially ending its rebuilding phase.
Young has remained sidelined with the team listing a right knee, MLC sprain and quad contusion as his injuries, though he's been able to pick up the pace of his on-court activities with roughly 20 regular season games remaining.
Dawkins noted last week that Anthony Davis has another appointment in efforts to return to the floor.
"I think he has a doctor's appointment coming up next week to try to get cleared to do some basketball stuff. The plan is for him and Trae to play at some point this year," Dawkins said during his bi-weekly appearance on 106.7 The Fan.