Trae Young drawing interest, but Wizards still expected to keep him

The expectation around the NBA remains that Trae Young will stay with the Wizards.

That’s also what Hoops Wire has been hearing. Nevertheless, rival teams continue to monitor the situation.

According to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, multiple clubs have considered the possibility of pursuing Young should he become available, with the Heat among those mentioned.

Fischer added that Miami is evaluating several contingency plans if it fails to land Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo, with Young, Grizzlies guard Ja Morant and Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard among the names being discussed.

Of course, there’s a major difference between monitoring a player and actually acquiring him.

Young, 27, holds a $49 million player option for next season and has until June 23 to make a decision. Any trade scenario would likely require him to exercise that option first.

Sources continue to tell Hoops Wire that Washington’s preference is to keep Young and work toward a longer-term agreement.

That makes sense.

The Wizards finally have reasons for optimism after landing the No. 1 overall pick in the draft lottery. Young appeared in just 15 games following his midseason arrival, but by most accounts enjoyed his brief time in Washington and remains viewed as a key part of the franchise’s plans.

Then again, this is the NBA offseason. Teams are supposed to ask questions.

Whether the Wizards are willing to listen is an entirely different matter.

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