Trae Young needs to be realistic about his future with the Hawks

The Atlanta Hawks have failed to build a contending roster around Trae Young. The All-Star guard is an exceptional offensive talent. However, his defensive shortcomings have made building around him difficult for the Hawks. As such, Atlanta is reportedly open to parting ways with him at the end of the season.

During a recent interview with Bleacher Report's Taylor Rooks, Young revealed that his goal is to raise a banner with the Hawks.

“They’ve never won a championship in Atlanta,” Young said. “Like doing that, like me getting drafted [it] felt like it was a match made in heaven. This is something I want to do. Like I can defeat the odds here too. So for me, my whole vision was always to be here like my goal was to win championships. Bring people here with me and build this championship [culture] here, dynasty here."

Young is talented enough to entice other players to the Hawks. He could be the lead guard on a championship roster. However, Atlanta's front office would need to rebuild the roster around him. That means acquiring multiple defensively talented wings. They also need to get younger in the middle of the floor. The Hawks are in their sixth year of trying to figure things out with Young.

It may be easier for the Hawks to trade Young in the summer and recoup some assets ahead of a rebuild. If they could send him to a situation where he can contend, their reputation as a franchise would remain intact. The Hawks front office faces some difficult decisions in the coming months.

If the Hawks choose to keep Young, they will likely move on from Dejounte Murray. Either way, there will be some significant roster changes during the summer. Young needs to be realistic with his goals should he remain in Atlanta. Despite having an elite coach in Quin Snyder, the roster looks at least two years away from contending.

It may be better for Young if he is traded this summer. At least then, he could explore a new team and opportunities to contend.