The 50 greatest NBA players of the 2020s (so far), ranked

18) Trae Young

Atlanta Hawks point guard Trae Young has quietly had a strong half-decade. In 326 games, Young has put up eye-popping numbers, averaging 27.1 points and 9.9 assists per game. That is the sixth-highest scoring average and highest assist average of any player in the NBA during that span. Even still, Young has become underrated, making only three all-star teams and one All-NBA team, even with elite offensive production.

Nevertheless, the Hawks have experienced limited success over that span, making the playoffs three times and the Eastern Conference Finals in 2020–21. Even after they risked the farm by acquiring all-star Dejounte Murray, the Hawks made the playoffs just once in two years with him and Murray. Had they not traded the rights to superstar Luka Doncic, they might have fared better but Young has been successful in his own right.

As the back half of the decade begins, Atlanta may have the same limited success that they had after trading Murray, and it seems as though they are about to do a soft reset around Young. If that doesn't work out, then Young could be on the move, but no matter where he plays, it is clear that he will still put up impressive production.