The Athletic NBA Daily Are the Hawks better without Trae Young? + Pelicans fire Willie Green
Nov 17, 2025
The hosts break down an exciting game where Kevin Durant and Alperen Sengun shine, leading the Rockets to an overtime win. They explore Steph Curry's challenges against rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama. A hot debate ensues on whether the Hawks are actually better off without Trae Young. The firing of Pelicans head coach Willie Green sparks conversation about team dysfunction, while an injury roundup highlights key issues affecting several NBA teams, including the Knicks and Grizzlies.
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Houston's Durant–Şengün Hierarchy
- The Rockets now operate with clear hierarchy: Kevin Durant as primary scorer and Alperen Şengün as a confident secondary creator.
- That balance produced a combined 65 points and multiple late-game options versus Orlando.
Hawks' On-Off Story Is About Fit, Not Replacement
- The Hawks are 7-2 without Trae Young and have improved defensively and with more cutting offense.
- Hosts warn the key test is whether Young can plug into that defense-first, cut-heavy version when he returns.
Have Young Adopt Off-Ball Roles
- Do test whether Trae Young will buy into cutting and off-ball threat roles to preserve team defense when he returns.
- If he blends in and defends, the Hawks' offense could become top-seven in the league.