As the Atlanta Hawks prepare for the 2025-26 NBA season, Trae Young stands at the heart of the franchise’s aggressive plan to reclaim its status as a championship contender. The team’s recent roster moves indicate a deliberate focus on complementing Young’s talents, aiming to assemble a squad capable of making a deep playoff run. With the offseason additions of players like Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Luke Kennard, alongside emerging prospects such as Zaccharie Risacher, Jalen Johnson, and Dyson Daniels, the Hawks hope to transform their lineup into a formidable force.
Young has not only been the team‘s on-court leader but also an active recruiter during the summer, demonstrating a hands-on approach in convincing new players to join the organization. His direct involvement underlines the importance of his leadership in the Hawks’ drive toward winning their first NBA title.
Inside Trae Young’s Conversations with New Teammates
Trae Young revealed on his YouTube channel that he personally reached out to new Hawks players Luke Kennard and Nickeil Alexander-Walker during the offseason. Having known both players from previous encounters in the league, Young emphasized the relationships he cultivated over the years as a key factor in their recruitment.
“Yeah. I talked to both of them on the phone; I was able to talk to them. I’ve known them for years. Being in this game, you connect with guys throughout the year,”
Trae Young said.
“I’ve known both of those guys for years. I reached out to both of them, and we were able to connect. Obviously, they both had options, but I wanted them on my team, and I know they would make our team better. We were able to talk and make it happen. I’m happy that they’re on my team. We made it work.”
—Trae Young
These direct contacts highlight Young’s commitment to building a confident, connected team environment that supports the Hawks’ championship aspirations.
Key Signings and Financial Moves Shaping Atlanta’s Roster
The Hawks invested heavily in strengthening their squad, dedicating $62 million over four years to secure Canadian guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker’s services. In addition, they committed $11 million for Luke Kennard for the upcoming season. Meanwhile, veteran forward Kristaps Porzingis remains an asset of the Boston Celtics, with no current financial obligation from Atlanta following Porzingis’s contract extension with Boston.
This financial agility shows the Hawks’ focus on positioning themselves competitively while managing cap space efficiently to maximize their ability to assemble a winning roster around Trae Young.
Trae Young’s Growth into a Leadership Role on and off the Court
Young’s role has evolved significantly since entering the league, shifting from a rookie finding his footing to a franchise cornerstone responsible for attracting talent and energizing the team’s outlook. He described this transition by reflecting on how his priorities and skills have changed over time.
“It’s definitely something I’ve gotten better at over the years. When you come in as a rookie, you’re not really doing that—trying to recruit guys for your team. Even in your first few years, when you’re trying to make a name for yourself and find your place in the league, you’re not really worried about those kinds of things. But now, at this point in my career, it’s a lot different. I’m trying to focus on winning.”
—Trae Young
This maturation into a vocal, strategic leader underlines the increasingly intense responsibility Young carries as the face of the franchise heading into what could be a defining season for Atlanta.
Organizational Confidence Mixed With High Stakes Ahead of Extension Talks
Front office executives have expressed cautious optimism about the Hawks’ offseason, signaling neither undue pressure nor limits on the team’s potential. One executive shared this perspective while speaking to Keith Smith of Spotrac, highlighting the confidence gained from recent moves.
“We won’t put any kind of expectations on our group, but we’re not putting any kind of artificial limits on them either. We feel like we had one of the best offseasons in the entire league,”
they stated.
Meanwhile, a critical juncture looms for Trae Young’s future with the franchise, as he is eligible for a four-year, $222 million contract extension. The magnitude of this deal carries significant implications not only for Young personally but also for the Hawks’ trajectory. While the financial commitment could secure Young’s presence in Atlanta for years, questions remain about whether this pact aligns with his ambitions and the team’s effort to reach the NBA’s summit.
The Hawks’ Championship Pursuit Under Trae Young’s Leadership
Atlanta’s front office has assembled a roster equipped with fresh talent and veteran experience, relying on the chemistry and competitive drive instilled by Trae Young. The stage is set for a season charged with hope and urgency, as the Hawks chase a title that has so far eluded them.
The path forward is filled with uncertainties, including Young’s contract decision, team dynamics, and how effectively new signings integrate into the system. Regardless, one factor remains clear: the franchise has made a bold bet with Trae Young at the helm, illuminating their commitment to winning.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did Adidas drop Trae Young?
A. He officially joined Jordan Brand, ending his association with Adidas.
Q. Are Trae Young 3 shoes good?
A. Buyers think these basketball shoes are high-quality, comfortable, and fit well according to their stated size.
Q. Are the Trae Young 3 shoes good?
A. Our decision: Adidas is focused on stability and has introduced another shoe with the Torsion System. The Adidas Trae Young 3 is ideal for players who play aggressively like top NBA guards, needing shoes that support fast movements.
Q. Why did Trae Young wear 8?
A. On January 26, Young scored 45 points and made 14 assists in a 152–133 victory over the Washington Wizards. To honor Kobe Bryant, who had recently passed away in a helicopter crash in California, Young wore the number 8 jersey for the first eight seconds of the game.