With the Hawks sitting at 7-11 and 11th in the East, it’s time to consider a full rebuild by trading Trae Young and other core players
The Atlanta Hawks are at a pivotal moment. With a 7-11 record, they sit 11th in the Eastern Conference, far from the playoff race they had hoped for. The offseason trade of Dejounte Murray to the Pelicans has left Trae Young’s future with the team in doubt. Meanwhile, emerging players like Dyson Daniels, Jalen Johnson, Zaccharie Risacher, and Onyeka Okongwu are eager for bigger roles. If the Hawks miss the playoffs once again, it may be time to consider a full rebuild and aim for a high draft pick, possibly targeting someone like Cooper Flagg.
Giving The Lakers The Ultimate Playmaker
Lakers Receive: Trae Young
Hawks Receive: D’Angelo Russell, Gabe Vincent, Jarred Vanderbilt, Jalen Hood-Schifino, 2029 First-Round Pick, 2031 First-Round Pick
The Lakers have long been linked to Trae Young, with rumors resurfacing during the 2024 offseason. It was reported that the Lakers had internal discussions about acquiring Young to complete their trio alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. While the trade didn’t happen at that time, the concept of adding a dynamic playmaker like Trae has remained an appealing prospect. His elite scoring ability and playmaking skills would seamlessly fill a critical role for the Lakers, making him a perfect fit to elevate the team’s championship ambitions.
For Trae Young, this season with the Hawks has been a rollercoaster, and his future with the team is becoming more uncertain. After the trade of Dejounte Murray, it’s clear the Hawks may be considering a shift in direction. With the team struggling to find its identity, trading Young could signal a full rebuild. Despite his impressive stats this season—21.9 points, 11.9 assists, and 3.6 rebounds per game—there are growing questions about whether he fits into the Hawks’ long-term plans, especially with a younger core ready to step up.
From the Lakers’ perspective, this trade makes sense given the assets they have available. D’Angelo Russell, who is averaging 11.2 points, 5.0 assists, and 2.3 rebounds on an expiring $18.6 million contract, could serve as a temporary solution for the Hawks while freeing up cap space for the future. Gabe Vincent, though struggling this season (3.0 points, 1.7 assists), is under contract for two more years and provides additional backcourt depth. Jarred Vanderbilt, though currently injured, is still young and offers defensive versatility that could benefit Atlanta.
In return, the Hawks get Jalen Hood-Schifino, a sophomore with potential, and two valuable first-round picks in 2029 and 2031. For Atlanta, this package provides a solid return for a star like Young, especially if the team is preparing for a rebuild. With players like Dyson Daniels, Zaccharie Risacher, Jalen Johnson, and Onyeka Okongwu eager for more playing time, trading Young would clear the path for their development. If the Hawks are heading for the lottery anyway, fully embracing a rebuild and targeting a future star like Cooper Flagg could be the best move.
For the Lakers, acquiring Trae Young would be a clear commitment to a win-now approach. Young’s exceptional playmaking would ease the burden on LeBron, allowing him to focus more on scoring and leadership, while also enabling Anthony Davis to flourish as a primary finisher. With Young orchestrating the offense, the Lakers’ lineup would be more dynamic and balanced, creating numerous offensive opportunities. This move would significantly boost their playoff prospects, positioning them for a deep postseason run and strengthening their championship aspirations, with the goal of securing a top seed, such as the 4th spot in the Western Conference.
The Kings Need Defense
Kings Receive: Clint Capela
Hawks Receive: Kevin Huerter, Trey Lyles, 2027 First-Round Pick
The Sacramento Kings, currently sitting at 8-10 and 11th in the Western Conference, have struggled defensively, despite De’Aaron Fox’s recent incredible performances, including averaging 39 points per game over the last five contests. The main issue has been a lack of a reliable shot-blocker, making their defense vulnerable and undermining the offensive brilliance of Fox and his teammates. This is why the Kings are adding 3-and-D veteran Jae Crowder to their roster, according to Shams Charania.
Clint Capela could be the answer to the Kings’ defensive woes. The Hawks’ center is averaging 11.1 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks this season and would provide the shot-blocking presence the Kings desperately need. Capela’s dominance on the boards and his ability to protect the rim would give the Kings the defensive anchor they’re missing, allowing them to establish a more balanced identity and complement their explosive offense.
For the Hawks, trading Clint Capela signals the end of his tenure in Atlanta. With his expiring $22.2 million contract, Capela becomes an attractive trade asset. In return, the Hawks receive Kevin Huerter, who brings back valuable shooting and floor spacing, along with Trey Lyles, a versatile forward who can contribute as a bench player. Additionally, the 2027 first-round pick adds significant future value, providing the Hawks with an asset to help retool their roster.
This trade addresses the Kings’ pressing need for defensive help, specifically in the paint, while giving the Hawks the opportunity to reset and focus on developing their younger core. For both teams, it’s a smart move that aligns with their respective goals.
