NBA Rumors: Hawks To Consider Huge Trade Possibility

It's been a disappointing season for the Atlanta Hawks, pending any unexpected playoff success. Big changes could be coming this summer, including, according to one report, a trade of the team's biggest star. 

The Hawks’ front office has the green light from ownership to consider trade opportunities involving Trae Young, per @KevinOConnorNBA pic.twitter.com/ryLoN9Yn8W

— NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) April 10, 2023

Kevin O'Connor of The Ringer reports that Hawks ownership is ready to move on from the face of the franchise.

With the offseason approaching, league sources say the Hawks’ front office has the green light from ownership to do whatever it wants to with the roster, which includes considering trade opportunities involving All-Star point guard Trae Young.

Young had a notable blow-out with former head coach Nate McMillan earlier this season that sparked rumors about the coach considering stepping down. That decision was taken out of his hands eventually, as he was let go and replaced by Quin Snyder. 

But interestingly, according to O'Connor, Hawks players "reportedly sided with the coach over their star player."

Young has immense offensive talent, this season averaging 26.2 points and 10.2 assists—second in the NBA. But his defense is pretty much non-existent, and his leadership abilities have been repeatedly questioned.

Snyder, as part of his agreement to take over the coaching reins, has been given considerable influence over personnel decisions moving forward, so expect him to be a big influencer in the ultimate question over whether Trae stays or goes. 

The Hawks face the Miami Heat in the first Play-In game Tuesday night; the winner takes the No. 7 seed in the East, and a berth in the first round against the Boston Celtics. The loser will have to face the winner of the 9 vs 10 Play-In between the Toronto Raptors and Chicago Bulls, in a single elimination game. 

Photo: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports