The Hawks were stuck in the middle of the pack during the 2022–23 NBA season. After going 41–41 and finishing No. 8 in the Eastern Conference, Atlanta is reportedly considering a major shakeup in the offseason.
According to Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer, league sources have indicated that Hawks ownership has given the front office approval to make some major changes, including potentially trading Trae Young.
“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,” wrote O’Connor.
Atlanta moved on from coach Nate McMillan this season amid rumors of a falling out between him and Young. Quin Snyder was subsequently hired to a five-year deal as he looks to guide the team back to championship contention.
Young has been the centerpiece of this Hawks’ roster since being drafted in 2018. Across 73 games in ’22–23, the 24-year-old averaged 26.2 points, 10.2 assists and 3.0 rebounds while shooting 42.9 percent from three-point range.
Atlanta has won two playoff series’ since Young’s arrival, both of which came during its run to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2020–21. The team has been unable to build upon that success in the subsequent two seasons, and it appears ownership is mulling some big changes as a result.
The Hawks are slated to face the Heat in the NBA play-in tournament as they look to punch their ticket into the playoffs.
