Washington Wizards Mailbag Monday: How the Wizards Could Trade For Paul George

Dec 19, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Paul George (13) is guarded by Washington Wizards guard Bradley Beal (3) at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 19, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Paul George (13) is guarded by Washington Wizards guard Bradley Beal (3) at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
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Dec 19, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers forward
Dec 19, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers forward

Washington Wizards probably won’t look to shake up their core, but if Paul George becomes available, the team has to consider it.

The first half of the season is over and the Washington Wizards have found themselves in the third spot in the Eastern Conference with room to grow.

Their brutal start seems like a lifetime ago, as the team’s become one of the hottest in the NBA.

Washington is amid a battle for playoff positioning and teams have begun acquiring more talent with hopes of getting over the edge.

On Sunday night, the Sacramento Kings traded DeMarcus Cousins to the New Orleans Pelicans for an underwhelming package consisting of rookie Buddy Hield and a first round draft pick.

New Orleans is trying to sneak into the playoffs, only to inevitably get swept by the Golden State Warriors.

Other teams, like the Washington Wizards, might consider making similar moves if they become available.

Both Paul George and Jimmy Butler have been linked to trade rumors.

If a team like the Wizards wants to dethrone the Cleveland Cavaliers, they could add one of the aforementioned stars, assuming the price is right.

Trade deadlines have been historically disappointing, but this year’s is already off to an eventful start. Serge Ibaka was traded last week and the Boogie deal could start a domino effect.

The deadline will remain this week’s main focus.