Trae Young declines player option with Wizards, enters free agency
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 18, 2026, 2:15 AM
Last updated Jun 18, 2026
Trae Young has opted out of his $48.97 million player option for the 2026-27 season with the Washington Wizards. This decision signals a potential shift in his partnership with the team, which he initially joined less than a year ago after a trade. While the Wizards remain a strong contender to retain him, Young's move comes amid growing interest from multiple teams looking to sign the four-time All-Star. Reports indicate Young is open to negotiating a long-term extension with Washington. The Wizards face a critical period ahead with the NBA draft scheduled for next week and ongoing discussions about their roster strategy.
- •Young declines player option, becoming a free agent on June 23.
- •Wizards remain front runners, but interest from multiple teams grows.
- •Young seeks a long-term extension, despite trade rumors.
- •Washington must navigate decisions ahead of the upcoming NBA Draft.
- •Young averaged 15.2 points and eight assists in five games with the Wizards.
- 2:15 AMYahoo Sports — Trae Young Declines Player Option with Wizards, Enter Free Agency
"A major domino in the Washington Wizards' offseason plans materialized on Wednesday night with Trae Young now entering free agency
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