Although the Atlanta Hawks traded Trae Young to the Washington Wizards in the middle of the 2025-26 season, Young was limited to just 15 total games (five with Washington) as he was dealing with a right quad contusion. Nevertheless, the eight-year veteran is confident he can bounce back in a big way and lead his new team to the No. 1 spot in the Eastern Conference next season.
During an interview on “The Pivot” podcast, the 27-year-old point guard admitted he's never been doubted so much in his basketball career. What's keeping him motivated is the opportunity to return to former glory with the Wizards. Young also believes he is just now entering his prime as an NBA star.
“This is the most slept on I've been in my whole life,” said Young… “Imagine the Wizards as the No. 1 team in the East next year. What [are] people gonna be saying?… I haven't played much in a year and a half, but trust me, I'm just entering my prime.”
Trae Young on doubters:
“This is the most slept on I’ve been in my whole life … Imagine the Wizards as the No. 1 team in the East next year. What people gonna be saying?
“I haven’t played much in a year and a half, but trust me, I’m just entering my prime.”
(🎥 via @thepivot) pic.twitter.com/bFjh5LD8kr
— Greg Finberg (@GregFinberg) June 9, 2026
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Last season was a rather frustrating one for the four-time All-Star. He was nowhere near his career numbers, and the injury prevented Young from reaching his full potential. But it seems being with the Wizards might be giving Trae Young a new motivation to return to his superstar status that, really, wasn't all that long ago.
Young has flashed major potential throughout his career, but hasn't led a team to an NBA Finals. He certainly wants to lead the Wizards to the No. 1 spot, much like Jalen Brunson is doing for the New York Knicks right now. Young owns career averages of 25.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, 9.8 assists, and 1.0 steals per game with a 43.3% field goal percentage while shooting 35.2% from beyond the three-point line.
Although the Atlanta Hawks traded Trae Young to the Washington Wizards in the middle of the 2025-26 season, Young was limited to just 15 total games (five with Washington) as he was dealing with a right quad contusion. Nevertheless, the eight-year veteran is confident he can bounce back in a big way and lead his new team to the No.