The Washington Wizards will rely heavily on Trae Young's offensive production during the 2026-27 NBA season, but the star guard is not shying away from questions surrounding his defense.
With Washington currently in training camp, Young acknowledged his defensive shortcomings while explaining why the Wizards' roster could put him in a better position on that end of the floor during his first full season in the nation's capital.
Speaking to Henry J. Brown of Sports Illustrated on Friday, Young admitted his size creates limitations compared with many players around the NBA.
“Defense is about effort and energy and obviously you got to have the physical tools too and I’m one of the guys that stands out in not being the 6’6”, 6’7”, 6'9” guys,” Young said. “But I’m still able to play in this league because I do something special that a lot of guys can’t on the other end.”
Young has faced criticism throughout his career for his defense, particularly because of the challenges his size can create against bigger guards. The four-time All-Star understands opponents could continue targeting him defensively with Washington.
Article Continues BelowTrae Young on his role and fit in the Wizards defense:
“I'm probably going to be the weak link on the team defensively, but I can still give effort… I know I got a lot of rim protectors and help behind me now.”
(via @HenryJNBA) pic.twitter.com/FNmvVa3idu
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) October 2, 2026
“So, I’m probably going to be the weak link on the team defensively, but I can still give a lot of effort and be there to help my guys and not just let my guy go to the basket,” Young said. “I can still give effort and make it challenging for my guard but I know I got a lot of rim protectors and help behind me now. That’s going to make my job easier to be out there and give effort.”
Wizards’ revamped roster gives Trae Young more defensive support
The Wizards' personnel could help mitigate some of Young's defensive limitations. Washington has assembled a roster featuring considerable size and length, highlighted by Anthony Davis and Alex Sarr in the frontcourt. Bilal Coulibaly and Kyshawn George also give Washington versatile defenders on the perimeter.
Young's arrival represents a major part of the Wizards' transition from rebuilding toward competing. Washington acquired him from the Atlanta Hawks in January in exchange for CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert before later adding Davis and selecting AJ Dybantsa with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.
Young will now enter his first full season with Washington surrounded by significantly more defensive support. While he openly recognizes that he could be the Wizards' weakest individual defender, Young believes consistent effort combined with the team's rim protection can prevent that weakness from becoming a liability.
For a Wizards team with playoff aspirations, finding that balance will be an important part of integrating Young into its revamped roster.