Trae Young's Trade Stock Falls as Hawks Thrive

Insiders are split on Trae Young’s trade value versus LaMelo Ball or Ja Morant — some call him "just small and doesn't play any defense," while others nod that he "might just be the ultimate floor raiser, which has its value." The timing matters: Young is on the last guaranteed year of his deal, sidelined with a sprained MCL, and Atlanta’s 12-5 run without him has intensified rumors he could be shopped before February. Merlin senses a market in flux. Teams crave Young’s offensive spark, but a near-$46M cap hit, defensive questions and Atlanta’s recent success without him soften offers. If he returns and reasserts his offensive dominance his value rebounds; if the Hawks keep winning, the asking price may prove unattainable.