Trae Young declines player option with Wizards, enters free agency
Realgm.com • 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.
- 2:37 AMRealgm.com — Trae Young To Decline $48.97M Option With Wizards To Become Free Agent - RealGM
- 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
Sources
External links- Realgm.comJun 18, 2026, 2:37 AMTrae Young To Decline $48.97M Option With Wizards To Become Free Agent - RealGM
- Yahoo SportsJun 18, 2026, 2:15 AMTrae 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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