Trae Young Injury Update, Trade Rumors, and Stats: The Latest on the Hawks Star

Atlanta Hawks fans are holding their breath as the 2026 NBA season unfolds with their franchise point guard, Trae Young, sidelined and swirling in a vortex of trade speculation. The dual storylines of his immediate health and his long-term future with the team are dominating headlines, creating a pivotal moment for the organization. As the trade deadline looms, every update on Young’s bruised quad and every whisper from league insiders carries significant weight for the Hawks’ direction.

Trae Young Injury Status & Return Timeline

Trae Young is currently sidelined with a right quadriceps contusion, an injury that has now cost him five consecutive games. The Hawks have been consistent in listing him as “Out” on their initial injury reports, with his absence confirmed for the January 5th matchup against the Toronto Raptors. While the immediate outlook is for continued rest, there is a light at the end of the tunnel regarding his rehabilitation.

According to a team announcement, Young “continues to increase his reconditioning activities and is expected to return to practice next week.” This is the most concrete timeline offered to date and suggests a return to game action could follow shortly after he resumes full practice. For now, the Hawks must navigate a critical stretch without their primary playmaker.

Trae Young’s Recent Performance Before Injury

Before the injury, Young was putting up his characteristic high-assist numbers, though his scoring was below his career average. Here’s a look at his production over his last stretch of games:

Intensifying Trade Rumors Surrounding Trae Young

The injury news is almost a subplot compared to the seismic trade rumors gaining momentum. Multiple reports indicate a shifting stance from the Hawks’ front office, with a growing belief around the league that Atlanta is more open to trading Trae Young than at any previous point in his career.

“There is a growing belief leaguewide that the Hawks are more open to trading [Young] away than they’ve ever been,” reported NBA insider Marc Stein.

Perhaps the most damning insight comes from an anonymous NBA executive, who gave a blunt assessment to ESPN’s Ryen Russillo: “Guys hate playing with him.” This sentiment, whether universally held or not, is cited as a major factor potentially suppressing a robust trade market for the three-time All-Star. Despite the Hawks’ apparent openness, a bidding war has not yet materialized.

Adding another layer, reports suggest Trae Young himself is “open-minded” to a trade, especially as the Hawks have not yet offered a contract extension ahead of his 2026-27 player option decision. This mutual openness has set the stage for what could be a franchise-altering move before the deadline.

Key Player Profile: Trae Young

The coming weeks are critical. Young’s return to practice will be the first step in regaining his on-court value, whether for the Hawks or a potential suitor. The trade rumors are no longer just background noise; they represent a genuine crossroads for both the player and the franchise. Atlanta’s actions—or lack thereof—at the deadline will send a clear signal about their vision for the future.

Common Questions

What is Trae Young’s injury and when will he return?

Trae Young is out with a right quadriceps contusion (bruise). He is expected to return to practice next week, with a return to games likely following soon after, barring any setbacks.

Are the Atlanta Hawks really trying to trade Trae Young?

Multiple NBA insiders report a growing belief that the Hawks are more open to trading Trae Young now than ever before. However, reports also indicate the trade market may be cooler than expected, partly due to concerns about his fit with other stars.

What are Trae Young’s stats this season?

In his last 10 games before his injury, Trae Young averaged 19.3 points and 8.9 assists per game. Over his last 5 games, those numbers improved to 20.8 points and 10.0 assists per contest.

Does Trae Young want to be traded?

Recent reports state that Trae Young is “open-minded” to a trade, especially as he approaches a decision on his 2026-27 player option without a contract extension from Atlanta currently on the table.