Since their 2021 Eastern Conference Finals run, the Atlanta Hawks have taken a steep dive—going from playoff darlings to complete absentees. But this offseason, they’re making noise again. With a bold move to bring in Kristaps Porzingis on an expiring deal without giving up any key pieces, and the free agency signings of Luke Kennard and Nickeil Alexander-Walker, the Hawks are finally building a solid squad around Trae Young. And the face of the franchise isn’t just watching from the sidelines—he’s leading the charge.

A month ago, he replied to a fan’s Finals dream with a cryptic “Promise..🤞🏽.” Now, that promise is starting to feel real. According to Shams Charania, Young personally recruited both Kennard and Alexander-Walker, showing he’s as locked in off the court as he is on it.

Kennard accepted a one-year, $11 million deal. Walker, a four-year, $62 million sign-and-trade acquisition from the Timberwolves. So his recent tweet, nothing but just an emoji of a time-ticking hourglass on his X, “⌛️.” Naturally, had fans questioning what’s actually happening behind the scenes. Does this mean there is any other singing on the horizon? Or is his career in Atalanta coming to an end? The latter question will certainly be a shock.

After all, the 4x NBA All-Star has averaged 25.3 points, 9.8 assists, 3.5 rebounds, 1.0 steals, and .433/.352/.873 shooting splits in 483 starts since debuting in 2018. Recently, there were reports of the Hawks shipping their all-star guard in a swap for Ja Morant, and the Kings finally getting their PG in Trae Young. Apart from this, it’s also time for the Oklahoma Sooners alum to get paid for his efforts.

According to Zach Langley, “Trae Young is eligible to sign a 4-year, $229 million max contract extension with the Atlanta Hawks today.” That news alone would stir the pot—but in the middle of swirling trade rumors and offseason speculation? It’s sent fans into a frenzy. Social media lit up with hopeful recruitment pitches and dream scenarios, while others just begged Young to stop with the cryptic posts and finally show his cards.

Trae Young’s message doesn’t assist fans

Speaking about trade, the move with the Kings did not materialize, as the Sacramento franchise had its doubts. The Athletic’s Sam Amick reported, citing league sources, that the Kings don’t have interest in Young due to his offense-first style of play and the hefty price tag he would come with. So a fan asked, “What does this mean?!?!? PLEASE”. Let’s not forget that the 26-year-old is happy with the current situation with the Hawks.

According to Marc Spears, “Trae is keeping an eye on things. I talked to people close to him, they say Trae is ecstatic. Trae is excited about this team…” With him being involved in recruiting also sends positive signs for the Hawks fans. That’s why a fan wanted another signing and excitedly wrote, “What’s coming to Atlanta?😁” The fans have been waiting for another run at the championship for a long time. The last time they reached the Eastern Conference Finals was in 2021.

So, that’s why the fan base wants the 26-year-old to continue, especially after the new players coming in. Another fan sent a more positive message and poured cold water over the rumors. “For everyone that wants to know what Trey Young is talking about he’s talking about his contract extension. It’s supposed to be today, July 6.” He last signed a deal in 2021, worth reportedly $215 million over 5 years. Plus, he has a player option for the 26-27 season.

Like any player option, if he declines, that would make him an unrestricted free agent in the 2026 offseason. So, the netizens don’t want to risk that going forward. Plus, a fan wants more from Trae Young to seal the ring. “Sign the extension & recruit Giannis ! 💍.” But it’s not all positive, as one fan was not fond of such hints. “C’mon Trae don’t do that 👀👀👀👀.” After this effort, Young won’t be leaving, surely, right? However, that negotiation in the contract might throw a wrench into those plans. Brace yourself, Hawks fans, soon there will be official news that will clarify the future.