Trae Young MCL Return Puts Hawks Trade Talks On Hold

Merlin sees Atlanta is not seriously shopping Trae Young even while the All Star sits out with a sprained MCL. The Hawks "hope Young can return soon and assimilate himself with the group to see what they have." His 2026 $49 million player option looms large, and "several executives" think picking it up might be the smarter move given his injury and inconsistent team results. Merlin notes the ledger is mixed. At 27 Young still scores and creates but has long been questioned on defense and playoff impact. Atlanta is 13 9 without him, so his next games are a crossroads. A strong return could quiet doubters and revive market interest. A limp return would make the option look like a safe shelter.