Washington Wizards: 3 potential Monte Morris trades

PHILADELPHIA, PA - MARCH 12: Monte Morris #22 of the Washington Wizards in action against Jalen McDaniels #7 of the Philadelphia 76ers during a game at Wells Fargo Center on March 12, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The 76ers defeated the Wizards 112-93. 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 Rich Schultz/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - MARCH 12: Monte Morris #22 of the Washington Wizards in action against Jalen McDaniels #7 of the Philadelphia 76ers during a game at Wells Fargo Center on March 12, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The 76ers defeated the Wizards 112-93. 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 Rich Schultz/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images)
(Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) /

Toronto Raptors

Another team that desperately needs a mature point guard with high basketball IQ is the Toronto Raptors. The uncertainty of Fred VanVleet’s free agency is looming, and there is a decent chance Toronto will not be able to retain him. In that case, Monte Morris would be a godsend for the Raptors. Even if VanVleet resigns, Morris would be a solid backup who can play next to him as well.

The Raptors have a surplus of big, athletic forwards with long wingspans. They can defend, rebound, and physically overwhelm you. But, they are low on playmaking, an area where Monte Morris would be massively helpful.

In order to balance their roster more, the Raptors need to move some of their forwards and big men for perimeter players. The Wizards have the opposite problem; they have more guards than they know what to do with and need more athletic forwards. That’s what makes this deal enticing for both sides.

The Wizards land a 23-year-old beast in Precious Achiuwa. The Nigerian power-forward’s offensive development has plateaued in the past few years, but he is an incredible defender. He is long, strong, and athletic with impressive lateral mobility. If he figures out his shooting a little bit, he would be a very valuable piece for the Wizards in the long run.

Thaddeus Young is mostly in the deal for salary matching but he is a good veteran who can pass and defend, the Wizards could always use players who can do that, especially if they are on an expiring contract like Young.