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yesterday

Trae Young Downplays Extension Uncertainty, Targets Wins to Shift Narrative

Atlanta is assessing a retooled roster under Quin Snyder before making long-term decisions.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 25: Trae Young #11 of the Atlanta Hawks drives against Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder during the first quarter at State Farm Arena on October 25, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)
Hawks guard Trae Young (11) drives around Orlando Magic guard Anthony Black (0) during the second quarter at Kia Center
Hawks' Trae Young and current player on the Atlanta Hawks of the NBA stands on the sidelines prior to a game between the Oklahoma Sooners and the Michigan Wolverines at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium
Atlanta Hawks Trae Young on Contract Extension 'I'm Not Worried About It'

Overview

  • Young opened the 2025–26 season without an extension and could reach free agency in 2026, holding a player option around $49 million for 2026–27.
  • He reiterated he is unconcerned with negotiations, saying he will control the present and let winning change perceptions about his game and leadership.
  • Young invoked Baker Mayfield’s turnaround as a model for how success can reset public narratives.
  • Quin Snyder emphasized efficiency, variable scoring and playmaking, and nightly defensive commitment as benchmarks for Young this season.
  • After a mixed start that included a 117–100 loss to the Thunder, Young addressed critics and expressed confidence in new support pieces such as Kristaps Porzingis, Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Luke Kennard, while remaining eligible for a four-year max extension estimated at about $229 million.