Trae Young trade rumors: Top 3 potential landing spots if Atlanta Hawks All-Star decides to leave

Multiple sources have recently reported that Atlanta Hawks point guard Trae Young may request a trade if the team doesn't make improvements in the postseason.

According to Chris Haynes of Bleacher Report, rival executives at the NBA's annual G League Winter Showcase believe that the player might request a trade if the Hawks do not make improvements.

Young has played excellently lately, averaging 27.6 points and 9.8 assists per game. He has scored at least 31 points in three of his last five games despite which the Hawks (17-18) are in the bottom half of the Eastern Conference.

Young is signed to a five-year, $215 million contract extension with an early termination option after the 2025-26 season. There have been reports of tension between Young and coach Nate McMillan, and the Hawks recently reassigned President of Basketball Operations Travis Schlenk to an advisory role.

This article looks at the top three teams that can sign Trae Young if the 24-year old ends up leaving.

Three teams that can sign Atlanta Hawks’ Trae Young this offseason

#1 New York Knicks

If the New York Knicks were to trade for Atlanta Hawks point guard Trae Young, the main concern would be their defense.

Young and potential trade-piece Jalen Brunson, standing at 6-foot-1 and 6-foot-2 respectively, would struggle to guard forwards. Additionally, Young has not shown strong defensive abilities overall. While the Knicks have a number of young players who have emerged as solid defenders, such as Quentin Grimes, the small size of the proposed backcourt could lead to significant defensive shortcomings.

The New York Knicks have a wealth of draft capital and have previously shown a willingness to engage in bidding wars. But it remains to be seen if they would be willing to pursue Young aggressively and sacrifice defense for an offensive centerpiece.

#2 Orlando Magic

The Orlando Magic could be an unexpected destination for Trae Young if the rumors of him wanting a trade come true. The team has a lot of potential and could benefit from having a strong point guard like Young leading the way. Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner are young, talented wings who could thrive alongside Young, who would take some of the defensive pressure off them.

While the Magic have Cole Anthony, Markelle Fultz and Jalen Suggs at point guard, they aren't on the same level as Young. Adding him could help Banchero and Wagner continue to develop their skills and make the Magic a force to be reckoned with in the future. The team is also likely to have a high pick in the 2023 draft, which could further bolster the roster.

#3 Miami Heat

Another team that can easily create cap space and benefit hugely from a Trae Young trade is the Miami Heat. Young's ability to handle the ball and score would be a great fit with Bam Adebayo, who is a strong passer and defender. However, Young's tendency to dominate the ball and his lack of defense may not be a perfect fit with the Heat's team-oriented offense and focus on defense.

The Heat may need to consider including Tyler Herro in a potential trade package. Despite their 18-17 record, the Heat's front office is known for being shrewd and may see the potential for a long-term contender with Young and Adebayo as the foundation. Along with Jimmy Butler, the Heat can be expected to do better immediately as well.