Trae Young Takes Over Washington Wizards Wearing No. 3

Trae Young is officially a Washington Wizard after the team finalized a trade that sent CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert to Atlanta. The four-time All-Star revealed he will wear No. 3, a number linked to Bradley Beal and other Wizards. GM Will Dawkins said, "It is a rare opportunity to acquire a player of Trae's skill, accomplishments, and age." Young has played just 10 games this season and missed the last six with a right quad contusion, so his debut in Washington is unclear. The Wizards sit 10-26 but have won four of seven. Merlin sees a bright but fragile chance for the franchise. Young's scoring and playmaking immediately raise Washington's ceiling, yet health and fit will decide how fast that shows. The No. 3 choice ties him to team history and brings added weight. If he stays healthy and adapts quickly, the Wizards could surprise; if not, the deal may look premature.