"He's an entertainer, too" - Magic Johnson likes how Trae Young has been evolving as a player

Ahead of the 2023-24 season, Magic Johnson acknowledged the potential of Trae Young as he shared praise for the Atlanta Hawks point guard due to his exceptional qualities. As arguably the greatest point guard of all time, Johnson understands what it takes to excel in various aspects of the game. In his assessment of Young, Magic highlighted "Ice Trae's" versatility and leadership.

Moreover, the Los Angeles Lakers legend also recognized Young's style of play, which has captivated fans and experts alike. For Magic, who was a master showman on the court himself, Young brings an element of excitement and entertainment to the game as well with his flashy passes, deep three-point shooting, and clutch performances.

"I love Trae," Earvin told These Urban Times . "It seem like he's gotten better and better every year, stronger and stronger but also he's a entertainer too. The way he can not only shoot the three but also pass the basketball too, I think he's grown as a leader too."

Magic thinks Trae needs a co-star

Indeed, Johnson was on point as Young has undeniably solidified his status as a rising star in the NBA. In his first six seasons with the Hawks , Trae has shown tremendous maturity and poise in leading his team, having spearheaded Atlanta to three consecutive playoff appearances.

While Young appears to be a great fit for the Hawks, Magic believes that he needs another formidable teammate to provide extra firepower. Johnson thinks that the Hawks could become championship contenders if they would be able to add the right pieces around 'Ice Trae.'

"The Hawks just got to take one more step," the Hall of Famer said. "It's levels to it, and right now [last season], they make the playoffs, but now it's time to really contend for a championship, so they got to figure out how to maybe add that one guy to make 'em a championship team. Because the backcourt is unbelievable, and so I think you can match them up against a lot of backcourts, but they just got to take that one more step."

The Hawks need to bounce back

Due to minor injuries, Young was limited to just 54 games this season. As a result, the Hawks only won 36 games and failed to make the playoffs.

Perhaps Magic was right about his take on Young and the Hawks, as the team evidently lacked a key contributor in the frontcourt. That said, Atlanta must utilize their lengthy summer break to make the right free agency moves and bounce back stronger next season.

Related: Trae Young says he wants to stay and win a title in Atlanta: "I can defeat the odds here, too"