Trae Young, the Atlanta Hawks’ star guard, has emerged as a focal point for discussions surrounding player performance in the upcoming NBA season. Young ranked 14th in the nation in scoring, as he poured in 24.2 ppg. This couldn’t have been easy after this was his lowest scoring output since his rookie season in 2018-19. His impact stretches well beyond the offense he scores. Better yet, he led the entire league in assists, scooping up a career-high 11.6 dimes per game. This earned him the honor of being the ball distributor. So much so that he outshined the great Nikola Jokic.
Young came under intense scrutiny after being dubbed “soft” by some league executives. This decision followed after his playoff exile in 2024, when he lost his fight against the playex plague. The four-time All-Star guard commanded the floor by leading the league last season with 82 games played. His performance was the perfect display of his mighty durability and insane commitment. He’s taken to a somewhat diminished role on the team without contention. Even with this tweak, he continues to maintain his position as one of the Atlanta Hawks’ most coveted assets.
Young’s Scoring and Assists Breakdown
While Young’s scoring average was down last season, it was offset by him becoming one of the best primary playmakers in the league. Averaging 20 points to go with a career-high 7.3 assists, he genuinely lifted his efficiency across the board. His three-point shooting percentage was a testimony to this development, emphasizing his evolution as an all around player.
For those critics waiting in the wings, readying to attack his overall scoring drop, take heart. One would be remiss to discredit Young’s general impact on the Hawks. His vision to slide into plays and set up chances for his teammates has already been critical to the team’s chemistry. Young’s selfish assist numbers underscore his unselfish play. He is not in it for himself — he wants the team to win more than he cares about winning MVP.
Additionally, Young’s playoff run was the most complete display of his potential, even if he was hampered at times by the effects of a virus. Hopefully, this experience will give him the confidence to keep him moving in that direction. He’s looking to raise his game up a level, and guide the Hawks to new peaks during next season’s NBA campaign.
The 2024 NBA Rank and Future Prospects
Across the board, the Atlanta Hawks have a promising 2024 NBA Rank of 37. That’s created tremendous pressure on the organization, as well as its top pick and now-star, Raina. Young’s potential impact on the court is significant as the organization looks to build on previous seasons. The story on how he plays day-to-day will be the biggest topic of discussion among supporters and pundits.
As Young gears up for the new season, he has an opportunity for a fresh start within a familiar environment. While he remains with Atlanta, many believe that this could be a pivotal year for him to redefine his role and solidify his standing among the league’s elite players. His will to win, mixed with his playmaking talents, makes him a linchpin for the Hawks’ future hopes of contention.
The new season brings Young an opportunity to improve his own individual performance. He’s capable of making a decent impact on the positive outcome of the team he plays on. He is, after all, painfully aware of the daggers he encountered from pundits and fans alike last season. Perhaps this awareness will inspire him to get back on track and challenge for his place among the league’s best.
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