Washington Wizards guard Trae Young intends to decline his $48.97 million player option for the 2026-27 season, making him an unrestricted free agent on Monday, according to sources reported by Andscape on Wednesday.
The Wizards are considered the front-runners to re-sign the four-time All-Star, but multiple teams across the league are expected to show significant interest in the guard, league sources said.
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Trade and Injury Background
Young entered last season focused on validating his four-year, $229 million maximum extension while leading the Atlanta Hawks.
However, a right MCL sprain in late October sidelined him until mid-December.
During his absence, Atlanta management saw enough potential in Jalen Johnson and the surrounding roster to change their backcourt direction.
The Hawks traded Young to Washington in early January for CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert.
After the trade, Young adjusted to a rebuilding Wizards environment, playing just five games for the team.
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Across 15 combined appearances last season, he averaged 17.9 points and 8.0 assists per game.
Wizards' Plans and Roster
Washington acquired Young to be the primary offensive coordinator for their developing core. Over his eight-year career, the point guard has averaged 9.8 assists per game.
The front office paired Young with newly acquired big man Anthony Davis.
Team executives believe the duo can form a potent All-Star combination capable of pushing the roster into playoff contention next season.
Beyond postseason goals, Washington relies on Young and Davis to guide a young core that includes Alex Sarr, Kyshawn George, Tre Johnson, Will Riley, Bub Carrington, and the number one overall pick in the upcoming draft.
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The roster reconstruction follows a difficult period for the franchise, which has suffered 64 or more losses in each of the past three seasons, according to ESPN.
