Particle.news
Download on the App Store
9 ARTICLES
·
3h ago

Wizards to Reevaluate Trae Young After All-Star Break, Delaying His Debut

The team cites a cautious medical plan as it balances injury recovery with 2026 draft-pick protection.

Jan 7, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) shown on the court before the game against the New Orleans Pelicans at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images/File Photo
Image
Image
Jan 9, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Newly acquired Washington Wizards guard Trae Young (M) looks on from the bench with teammates against the New Orleans Pelicans in the first half at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Overview

  • The Wizards will not reevaluate Young until after the mid-February All-Star break, which projects at least 15 more missed games.
  • The four-time All-Star injured his right MCL in late October, returned in mid-December, then sustained a right quad contusion and has not played since Dec. 27.
  • Washington acquired Young on Jan. 7 from Atlanta for CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert, and he has yet to appear for his new team.
  • Team decision-making factors include protecting a 2026 first-round pick that conveys to New York unless it lands in the top eight; Washington sits 10-28.
  • The NBA’s player participation policy could draw league attention to a prolonged absence, though no investigation has been indicated.