** Trae Young Poised for Breakout Season Amid Contract Talks

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The Atlanta Hawks have made significant strides during the offseason, creating an environment that could propel their star guard, Trae Young, into the spotlight for a lucrative contract extension. With notable acquisitions, including Kristaps Porzingis from the Washington Wizards and sharpshooter Luke Kennard from the Memphis Grizzlies, the Hawks are gearing up for what could be a pivotal season in the Eastern Conference. These moves are complemented by the emerging talents of Jalen Johnson, Dyson Daniels, and Zaccharie Risacher, who showed great potential in the previous season.

Young’s performance last season was nothing short of stellar, as he averaged 24.2 points per game and led the league with an impressive 11.6 assists. His skills earned him a spot in the All-Star game for the fourth consecutive year, and he finished a respectable fourth in Clutch Player of the Year voting. However, despite his accolades, Young finds himself often overshadowed in discussions about elite guards by the likes of Luka Dončić and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

While both Dončić and Gilgeous-Alexander secured multi-year contracts exceeding $50 million annually, Young has had to patiently wait, watching as his peers solidify their financial futures. As reported by CBS Sports, De’Aaron Fox also received an extension this summer, adding to Young’s urgency to demonstrate his worth. This upcoming season serves as a critical juncture for the Hawks’ franchise player, as a strong performance could not only validate his status among the league’s best but also significantly enhance his negotiation power.

The Hawks’ reshaped roster appears more competitive, especially in a conference that has seen some teams falter. The addition of Porzingis offers a unique inside-outside threat, providing Young with a potent pick-and-roll partner. Kennard’s shooting prowess will complement Young’s playmaking, allowing for more offensive fluidity. This synergy will be crucial as Atlanta aims to assert itself as a contender in the Eastern Conference.

Furthermore, Young’s ability to elevate his game even further could lead to a remarkable season for both him and the Hawks. With a supporting cast that can alleviate some pressure, Young has the perfect platform to showcase his skills and leadership abilities. The blend of established players and young talent offers the potential for a deep playoff run, which could ultimately bolster Young’s case for a hefty contract extension.

As the season approaches, all eyes will be on Young to see if he can seize this opportunity. The stakes are high—not just for the team but for the player who has become synonymous with Atlanta basketball. According to CBS Sports, how he performs this season could very well dictate both his legacy with the franchise and his financial future in the league.

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