Trae Young plans to decline his $48.97 million player option for the next NBA season and become a free agent on Monday, June 22, according to ESPN.
ESPN reported Wednesday, citing franchise sources, that the Washington Wizards still expect to retain the four-time NBA All-Star despite his decision to enter free agency.
Young joined Washington last season after averaging 25.2 points and 9.8 assists. The Wizards acquired him to serve as a lead playmaker and help push the franchise toward a playoff spot.
His season was disrupted by a right MCL injury in late October. The injury came in his fifth game of the campaign and kept him out until mid-December.
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Young appeared in only five games for the Wizards during the 2025-26 NBA season. He averaged 17.9 points and 8.0 assists across 15 total games with the Hawks and Wizards.
Washington’s cap rights give the franchise more leverage in negotiations than rival teams. Young’s next contract decision will shape the Wizards’ offseason plans.
