The Washington Wizards proved with their acquisition of Trae Young that if the right opportunity presents itself, they won't hesitate to take a swing.
With the NBA trade deadline approaching in February, all signs point to Washington continuing to explore the possibility of making another blockbuster trade as the team continues to gear up towards a possible run in the East next season.
Between the team's financial flexibility, veteran contracts, young talent on the roster and abundance of draft assets, the Wizards have plenty of ammo at their disposal to make a run at a player they deem worthy of the risk.
According to Wizards insider Josh Robbins of The Athletic, two names in specific have been listed as potential targets for the team's next blockbuster trade.
Wizards linked to Zion Williamson, Jonathan Kuminga
In Robbins' recent article updating where things stand for the Wizards as the deadline looms, Zion Williamson's situation in New Orleans was listed as one to monitor.
"With the Young trade as the template of a low-cost trade for a distressed asset, league sources speculated that New Orleans Pelicans big man Zion Williamson would be someone the Wizards would have to consider if the price is right," Robbiins said.
The former No. 1 overall pick without a doubt would be a swing worth taking for the Wizards if the price is right.
At 25, Williamson is still one of the top young prospects in the league who's potential is among the highest in the league if he can overcome his history of nagging injuries.
Averaging 21.9 points, 5,7 rebounds and 3.4 assists, while shooting 58.2% from field goal range on the season, the Duke product would be a huge swing for the Wizards that would be well worth the swing.
However, Robbins' provided warning that a deal for the Pelicans' star isn't exactly likely.
"To be crystal clear: The Wizards trading for Williamson appears to be an extreme long shot. But it was mentioned as a possibility by enough league sources that it at least should be mentioned here," Robins noted.
In addition to Williamson, Jonathan Kuminga's situation in Golden State has been listed as another name the Wizards could check in on.
"Forward Jonathan Kuminga, unable to earn consistent minutes with Golden State from coach Steve Kerr, would be an example of another distressed asset whom the Wizards at least would check on before the deadline arrives," the insider reports.
Washington's interest in Kuminga dates back to last offseason and with the current trade demands from the former lottery pick adding to his ongoing saga in the Western Conference.
While a trade for the Wizards is far from guaranteed, it's worth mentioning that the Wizards are atleast in the market to make another swing.