Trae Young set to decline player option and become free agent
New York Post • • sports
Key Points:
- Trae Young has declined his $48.97 million player option, making him a free agent, with an official announcement expected on Monday.
- Washington Wizards are considered the frontrunners to re-sign Young, though multiple teams are expected to pursue him with max-contract offers.
- Young, drafted fifth overall by the Atlanta Hawks in 2018, spent eight years with the team and led them to three playoff appearances, including the 2021 Eastern Conference Finals.
- After injuries limited his performance in the 2025 season, Young was traded to Washington, where he played only five games due to further injuries; the trade benefited both teams.
- With the Wizards possessing the first pick in the 2026 NBA Draft and another aging star in Anthony Davis, the team faces a potential quick rebuild, possibly targeting young prospects like AJ Dybansta or Darryn Peterson.
