Wizards G Trae Young Avoids Surgery for Quad, Back Injuries

Young reinjured his quadriceps in a recent loss to the Warriors and has missed the last two games.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 8:55pm

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The Washington Wizards announced that point guard Trae Young is dealing with a right quadriceps contusion and lower back irritation, but the injuries will not require surgery at this time. Young, a four-time All-Star, reinjured his quadriceps in the third quarter of the Wizards' loss to the Golden State Warriors and has missed the team's last two games against the Detroit Pistons.

Why it matters

Young was acquired by the Wizards in a January trade with the Atlanta Hawks and has been limited to just 20.8 minutes per game since making his debut on March 5. The Wizards have struggled this season, entering Saturday's game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on a 14-game losing streak. Keeping Young healthy is crucial for the team as they look to rebuild around the 27-year-old star.

The details

The Wizards said in a press release that Young's injuries 'are being treated conservatively and will not require surgery at this time.' The team will provide further updates on his status as appropriate. Young has averaged 15.2 points and 6.2 assists in five starts for the Wizards since the trade.

  • Young reinjured his quadriceps in the third quarter of the Wizards' 125-117 loss to the Golden State Warriors on March 18.
  • Young did not play in the Wizards' back-to-back losses to the Detroit Pistons on March 21 and March 23.

The players

Trae Young

A 27-year-old point guard for the Washington Wizards. Young is a four-time NBA All-Star who was acquired by the Wizards in a January trade with the Atlanta Hawks.

Washington Wizards

An NBA team based in Washington, D.C. that is currently in the midst of a 14-game losing streak and has a 16-53 record on the season.

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What they’re saying

“Both injuries are being treated conservatively and will not require surgery at this time. Further updates will be provided as appropriate.”

— Washington Wizards

What’s next

The Wizards will provide further updates on Young's status as his injuries continue to be evaluated and treated conservatively.

The takeaway

Keeping Trae Young healthy is crucial for the rebuilding Wizards, who acquired the four-time All-Star in a January trade. While Young's current quadriceps and back injuries will not require surgery, the team will need to manage his minutes and recovery carefully to ensure he can contribute once he returns to the court.