Following the NBA’s latest big trade, which included the four-time All-Star Trae Young, Skip Bayless took to social media to criticize Washington’s newest addition.
“Trae Young will make the perfect Wizard,” Bayless wrote on social media.
“So hard to win with him. Short & slender, highest usage rates, takes/misses so many 3s, defensive liability. BUT … fun to watch, sells tickets, boosts local ratings.”
Trae Young will make the perfect Wizard. So hard to win with him. Short & slender, highest usage rates, takes/misses so many 3s, defensive liability. BUT … fun to watch, sells tickets, boosts local ratings.
— Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless) January 8, 2026
Young becomes the biggest name to land in Washington since they parted ways with Bradley Beal.
So far, Young is having a down year. He missed most of the 2025-2026 NBA season, only appearing in 10 games for the Atlanta Hawks.
When he was on the court, Young struggled with his shot, making just 30 percent of his attempts, putting up 5.9 shots per game. He posted averages of 19.3 points, 8.9 assists, and 1.5 rebounds.
There’s no doubt that when healthy, Young is one of the most notable passers and scorers in the game. His four All-Star appearances are no fluke.
However, Young’s defensive struggles have been in the spotlight over the years. As Atlanta played well on that side of the ball in his absence, the team’s struggles when he was on the court made sure that criticism aimed at Young was at an all-time high.
Eventually, the two sides decided a split would be best. Young grew open to parting ways with the Hawks, and Atlanta found a suitor in Washington rather quickly.
It’s unclear what the future holds for Young and Washington, as the star guard has a player option to make a decision on in June, but it seems there is a good chance that the Wizards are open to keeping Young on board for the long haul to serve as a veteran star for their young core to look up to.