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ATLANTA, GEORGIA - FEBRUARY 24: Trae Young #3 of the Washington Wizards speaks to the media prior to the game against the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena on February 24, 2026 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)
Heading into a Tuesday night matchup in Florida, the Washington Wizards have downgraded their key star, Trae Young, against the Miami Heat.
According to the Wizards’ injury report, Young is going to get the night off due to injury management. He’s still remaining cautious with his right knee concerns, which have been an issue for most of the 2025-2026 NBA season.
Tuesday’s game marks the first absence for Young since he debuted for the Wizards this season.
How Is Trae Young’s Wizards Stint Going?
GettyATLANTA, GEORGIA – FEBRUARY 24: Trae Young #3 of the Washington Wizards warms up prior to the game against the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena on February 24, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.(Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)
The Wizards might’ve debuted Young, but he hasn’t gone full throttle just yet.
During his first game against the Utah Jazz on March 5, Young checked in for 19 minutes. The star guard shot 4-9 from the field, scoring 12 points. He also came down with two rebounds and dished out six assists. He also came up with two steals on the defensive end of the floor.
In his second game out, Young checked in for a little under 18 minutes against the New Orleans Pelicans on the road. Young shot 4-6 from the field, knocking down a few threes. He produced 17 points and eight assists on offense. Defensively, Young came down with four rebounds.
Although the Wizards landed strong, limited performances from Young, the team came up short in both outings. They are currently in the midst of an eight-game losing streak.
The Wizards’ Struggles Are Ongoing
The NBA trade season got underway with the deal sending Trae Young to the Wiaards.
GettyTrae Young prior to his time with the Washington Wizards.
Washington didn’t plan to be a contender in the Eastern Conference this season.
Their record checks out, as they are 16-47 on the year. Heading into Tuesday’s action, the Wizards are 14th in the Eastern Conference. The only team they are ahead of is the Indiana Pacers, who are 15-49 on the year.
Despite being in a rebuilding position, the Wizards’ front office made it clear they are ready to start turning things around. A trade with the Atlanta Hawks allowed for them to move on from two veterans, in exchange for Young. The ex-Hawks All-Star will be eligible for an extension. He has a $48.9 million player option looming for 2026-2027.
Beyond Young, the Wizards doubled down with another trade for an All-Star in Anthony Davis. Knowing the Dallas Mavericks didn’t see a long-term future with Davis, the Wizards took advantage.
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 06: Head coach Jason Kidd of the Dallas Mavericks talks to Anthony Davis #3 during their game against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center on January 06, 2026 in Sacramento, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
Next season, the Wizards plan to compete for a playoff spot in the East. For the time being, they are focused on the continued development of their young players, while keeping Davis and Young as healthy and as fresh as possible for next season.
Young will get some rest on Tuesday, sitting out for the Heat game, which tips at 7:30 PM ET. Next, the Wizards will visit the Orlando Magic on Thursday, March 12.