CJ McCollum speaks out on his trade with Trae Young
Jan 6, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Wizards guard CJ McCollum (3) celebrates during the second half against the Orlando Magic at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images
CJ McCollum reacted positively to his trade to the Atlanta Hawks, which occurred as part of the major exchange that sent Trae Young to the Washington Wizards on Wednesday. The veteran guard had nothing but praise for the Washington organization while expressing his excitement about joining Atlanta.
Sincere thanks to the Wizards organization
Despite a brief stint in the American capital, McCollum has excellent memories of his experience with the Wizards. « I loved my time in DC. The organization was great to my family and I », McCollum told NBA insider Chris Haynes. « Michael Winger and Will [Dawkins] did everything they said they would and kept their word from the very beginning. Love the city and they’re doing things the right way over there. »
McCollum’s stay in Washington was short-lived. After four seasons with the New Orleans Pelicans, he was traded to the capital last summer in an exchange involving Jordan Poole. In the end, he only played 34 games in a Wizards jersey.
CJ McCollum to me on trade to Atlanta: « Loved my time in DC. Organization was great to my family and I. Michael Winger and Will [Dawkins] did everything they said they would and kept their word from the very beginning. Love the city and they’re doing things the right way over…
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) January 8, 2026
A new challenge in Atlanta with high ambitions
The 33-year-old guard is eager to discover his new environment. « Can’t wait to get to Atlanta and get to work. I know their style of play very well. I love the ownership group and the front office. A good group of players », he stated.
This season, McCollum is averaging 18.8 points per game and hopes to maintain that offensive production with the Hawks. His experience could prove valuable for an Atlanta team that has a record of 18 wins and 21 losses early in the season.
However, McCollum might not have time to settle in permanently. According to Shams Charania of ESPN, the Young trade gave the Hawks « financial flexibility to pursue a big salary over the coming months », with Anthony Davis of the Dallas Mavericks as a « priority target ». If Atlanta decides to make another big move before the trade deadline, McCollum could be packing his bags again soon.
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