Wiz of Awes
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Washington Wizards: 3 potential Porzingis trades once he picks up his player option

By Cem Yolbulan

SAITAMA, JAPAN - OCTOBER 02: Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the Washington Wizards attends the press conference during the Washington Wizards v Golden State Warriors - NBA Japan Games at Saitama Super Arena on October 02, 2022 in Saitama, Japan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jun Sato/WireImage)
SAITAMA, JAPAN - OCTOBER 02: Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the Washington Wizards attends the press conference during the Washington Wizards v Golden State Warriors - NBA Japan Games at Saitama Super Arena on October 02, 2022 in Saitama, Japan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jun Sato/WireImage) /
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(Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
(Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

New York Knicks

A Wizards-Knicks trade involving Porzingis would not only send him home to the team that drafted him back in 2015, but it would also be a fantastic fit for New York.

The New York Knicks took a major step forward last season, finishing fifth in the Eastern Conference on the back of the dynamic Jalen Brunson-Julius Randle duo. Despite the overachievement, the Knicks still need to make certain improvements to become a true contender. One of these is more shooting, and this is where Porzingis can help.

Brunson and Randle operate better with more spacing. Porzingis’ ability to space the floor for them will open up the driving lanes for both stars. Porzingis’ rim protection will also cover for the defensive shortcomings of Randle. Randle-Porzingis frontcourt duo would be one of the better-fitting big men partnerships in the NBA. Coach Tom Thibodeau, who likes to play a rim-protecting center at all times, would be thrilled to have Zinger on his team anchoring the defense.

To match the salaries, the Wizards get back Evan Fournier and Mitchell Robinson. Fournier could be a solid veteran backup shooting guard, and Robinson could be a long-term piece at the center position for the Wizards.

The most important aspect of this deal is the Wizards’ getting their own pick back from the Knicks. Considering the incoming roster teardown, the Wizards will almost certainly be a lottery team next year. It is in their best interest to control their own draft pick and maximize their chances of landing a top pick.

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