Trae Young to become free agent after declining Wizards option in 2026

Trae Young will decline his $48.97 million player option and become a free agent on Monday.

Young's decision confirmed Trae Young intends to turn down his $48.97 million player option for the 2026-27 season and will enter free agency on Monday. Washington remains the leading contender to re-sign the four-time All-Star, though multiple other teams are expected to pursue him. Young had previously aimed to earn a four-year, $229 million maximum deal by proving his value last season. ## Injury disrupted 2025-26 season Young suffered a sprained right MCL in the fifth game of the 2025-26 season in late October, missing nearly two months before returning in mid-December. During his absence, the Atlanta Hawks developed confidence in Jalen Johnson and teammates, leading them to trade Young to Washington in early January for CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert. Across 15 total games for both teams that season, Young averaged 17.9 points and 8.0 assists. ## Wizards' plans for Young The Wizards acquired Young to lead their young roster, with the expectation that he and Anthony Davis would form an All-Star tandem capable of pushing the franchise toward playoff contention. Washington also drafted Alex Sarr, Kyshawn George, Tre Johnson, Will Riley, Bub Carrington, and the No. 1 overall pick to bolster their rebuilding effort. ## Recent roster moves The Wizards also traded for Anthony Davis last season, viewing him and Young as cornerstones for their future. Meanwhile, other roster developments included a visit from a free agent to Washington, while Sarr underwent surgery for a fractured foot after missing time.