Trae Young's future is a sticking point for Hawks

The trade deadline closed on Feb. 8. Yet, we're already looking toward the offseason. That's especially the case when talking about Trae Young. The All-Star guard is reportedly a target for the San Antonio Spurs. It would also appear the Hawks are willing to listen to offers for their star offensive player. 

"One exec said Atlanta discussed a potential Young trade with San Antonio before last week’s deadline," The Ringer's Howard Beck reported. "The Hawks were also well known to be shopping Dejounte Murray, their other star guard, before the deadline, but never found a deal they liked. It’s considered a near certainty that they will part with one, or both, this summer."

Targeting Young makes sense for the Spurs. He would provide ball-handling and playmaking while also taking some attention away from Victor Wembanyama. San Antonio is also one of the only places where his defensive limitations could be masked. Having Wembanyama protecting the rim should reduce Young's negative impact on that side of the floor.

However, the Hawks will likely be reluctant to part with their star player. They're likely committed to making things work with him after passing up on Luka Doncic in the 2018 draft. It's worth noting that the Dallas Mavericks are yet to win a championship, either. 

Dejounte Murray is a two-way player. He can defend at an elite level. He can sustain a high level of offense. He's a more logical fit for a team that's changing direction. Young is better suited to being a second option next to an All-NBA talent. Wembanyama might not be at that level yet, but it won't be long until he is. 

Regardless of which way the Hawks decide to proceed, they've got some tough choices ahead. If they make him available, Young will undoubtedly have multiple teams showing interest. Yet, sending him to the Western Conference will likely be the desired outcome. Giving him a chance to thrive next to Wembanyama makes sense for everyone involved. As long as the Hawks get a fair trade return, of course.