Is Young Cottonwood Dead?

Question

young cottonwood only has a few leaves coming from low on the trunk, rest of the tree looks dead. Will the tree recover or should just cut it down?

Answer 1

Likely, it suffered from a disease. If there is growth from the bottom, it is still alive, however, the top of the tree may need removal. This is, especially important if the tree is at risk of falling on anything or anyone.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/design/professional/when-to-call-tree-cutting-professionals.htm

Answer 2

The trunk is only 3 inch diameter and tree is about 25 feet tall, only in the ground for 2 winters. Deer rubbed it last fall. Cut the trunk above new growth and see if it comes back? Or just cut it down?