Fri, Jan 9, 2026 at 3:00pm

HAWKS TRADE TRAE YOUNG TO D.C.

The Washington Wizards acquired guard Trae Young from the Atlanta Hawks for guard CJ McCollum and forward/guard Corey Kispert.

What does it give the Washington Wizards
For the Wizards, this trade lands them a superstar guard that could make a major impact. Of course, this is what the Wizards expected when they acquired McCollum, too. Hopefully, Young provides even more scoring and playmaking for a Washington team desperately seeking elite guard play.

What does it give the Atlanta Hawks
For Atlanta, this deal is mostly about salary flexibility. McCollum is on an expiring contract, so he might not be long for Atlanta. The Hawks may decide to move forward with Nickeil Alexander-Walker at the point guard position. As for Kispert, he is a good backup swingman and not much more.

Fantasy impact
Young should continue to put up good fantasy numbers after this trade. Does he have another level, though? Can he elevate his game with the Wizards? Stay tuned. McCollum's situation is more tenuous now that he is in Atlanta. He could be on the move again (either before the NBA trade deadline or over the summer), so beware. Kispert remains a player on the outside looking in for fantasy purposes.

Player focus

Washington Wizards

Trae Young G