Washington Wizards: Wizards finally acquire Trevor Ariza from the Suns

The Washington Wizards have finally obtained small forward Trevor Ariza from the Phoenix Suns.

A 3-team trade fell through last night between the Washington Wizards, Phoenix Suns, and the Memphis Grizzlies. There was confusion of which Brooks player was involved in the trade, Dillon or MarShon.

Despite the confusion, Phoenix and Washington still wanted to make something happen. None other than Adrian Wojnarowski breaks the updated trade for us.

Receiving Trevor Ariza will ultimately be good for the Wizards. The disappointing factor is that Washington had to give up Kelly Oubre Jr. as part of the deal. He showed so much promise and potential. Sounds like the team just wasn’t confident in signing him this offseason. It’s understandable since the Wizards do hold 3 max contracts in John Wall, Bradley Beal, and Otto Porter.

Ariza will bring a defensive mindset to the team, which is desperately needed. In addition, the small forward will be a good presence in the locker room. The Wizards have lacked a veteran that can step in and put the team in check.

Don’t forget that he played with Washington for 2 years (2012-2014). He averaged 14.4 points in the 2013-14 season and helped the Wizards advanced out of the first round of the playoffs. There’s no doubt that Ariza feels comfortable heading back to D.C.

Since this kicks off the trading frenzy, does that mean that this trade is part of a bigger plan? The Los Angeles Lakers seemed pretty persistent about trying to acquire Ariza. Does Washington have plans to ship Wall and Ariza to L.A. for some young talent? That would be the smart move. But, as of right now, the Wizards sit 2.5 games back of a playoff spot and believe that Ariza can help them get there.

Austin Rivers was dealt as well, which is great. He’s been nothing but a disappointing and failed to meet expectations. A change of scenery should do him well.

It’s exciting to see Ariza back. It helps that Wall and him have a good relationship. Maybe he will be able to get the best out of Wall and push him to be the player the team needs him to be.

Now, we’ll wait and see if anything else happens with the Wizards. The trading frenzy has officially begun and the next few weeks should be exciting.

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