Proposed Trade Sends Paul George To The Atlanta Hawks For Trae Young

The Los Angeles Clippers are looking to boost their team and have their sights set on James Harden from the Philadelphia 76ers. However, the trade terms aren’t matching up between the two teams. 

Given this, Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley thinks the Clippers could set their sights on a different star, namely Trae Young. With past rumors of Young’s issues with his team’s management and his own leadership concerns, it’s plausible that he might be up for trade discussions.

Despite such challenges, Young stands out as one of the best point guards in the NBA, recently averaging 26.2 points, 3.0 rebounds and 10.2 assists per game on 42.9% shooting from the field. Given Young’s talent, Buckley believes the Clippers might need to trade Paul George to get him.

Per Bleacher Report:

“Los Angeles Clippers receive: Trae Young, Clint Capela and Saddiq Bey

Atlanta Hawks receive: Paul George, Terance Mann, Ivica Zubac and a 2029 first-round pick

The Clippers have been eyeing James Harden throughout the offseason, but they’ve so far been unwilling to meet the Philadelphia 76ers’ asking price. They might be more comfortable parting with premium assets for Young, who is nearly a decade younger, arguably more dynamic and under contract for at least the next three seasons (early termination option in 2026-27).

Plus, L.A. would upgrade at the center spot to the more athletic Capela and fetch a three-and-D wing in Bey. If Leonard stays healthy, this package plus the Clippers’ leftover depth could put this club right in the heart of the championship race.

The Hawks, meanwhile, have long needed a shutdown wing defender like George, who could also factor heavily into their post-Young scoring plan. A fully healthy George arguably impacts winning more than Young, since he contributes at both ends, but his trade value would be hurt by his age, injury trouble and contract uncertainty.

So, Atlanta would also fetch Mann, a strong-on-paper backcourt fit for Dejounte Murray, and an unprotected future first. Trading Capela would open up a starting spot for Onyeka Okongwu, leaving Zubac as a high-end reserve and insurance option if Okongwu isn’t as ready as he appears.”