Washington Wizards: Four potential in-season trades to continue rebuilding
By Cem Yolbulan
Wizards receive: Tim Hardaway Jr, a 1st-round pick swap
Mavericks receive: Danilo Gallinari, Delon Wright
One team that could use the services of both Delon Wright and Danilo Gallinari is the Dallas Mavericks. Mavs are desperately trying to be better this season following the disappointment of last season when they missed the playoffs, especially after the massive deal they gave Kyrie Irving this offseason. They need to make the playoffs in order to keep Luka Doncic happy in Dallas.
Wright and Gallinari are not ideal championship pieces due to their deficiencies; shooting for Wright and athleticism and defense for Gallinari. Yet, they are better than a lot of players on Dallas’ rotation.
Wright fits perfectly next to Irving and Doncic as the primary point-of-attack defender. Gallinari will have plenty of open shots playing alongside the two stars.
Perhaps the most appealing part of this trade for the Mavericks is their contract status. They are both expiring after the season, helping Dallas with added financial flexibility. They are getting rid of Tim Hardaway Jr’s contract that extends another season worth $16.1 million.
To take on Hardaway Jr’s contract, the Wizards would get a future first-round pick swap. Depending on what year the teams agree on, it could be a valuable asset considering the uncertainty in Dallas regarding the future of their stars. Hardaway Jr can also still play, providing floor-spacing for the young Wizards. If he performs well, the Wizards can also trade him in a separate deal later.