4 Jordan Poole trades the Wizards can consider if they decide to move him
By Cem Yolbulan
![TORONTO, CANADA - NOVEMBER 13: Jordan Poole #13 of the Washington Wizards gets ready on the bench ahead of the first half of their NBA game against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on November 13, 2023 in Toronto, Canada. 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 Cole Burston/Getty Images) TORONTO, CANADA - NOVEMBER 13: Jordan Poole #13 of the Washington Wizards gets ready on the bench ahead of the first half of their NBA game against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on November 13, 2023 in Toronto, Canada. 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 Cole Burston/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/02687920b92be4f1586f6f490cc5178328cc30894fd55bd1041a47aba295d104.jpg)
Toronto Raptors receive: Jordan Poole
Washington Wizards receive: Gary Trent Jr, Chris Boucher
The best conceptual fit for Jordan Poole is a team that can cover for his defensive shortcomings. The Toronto Raptors certainly fit that bill.
Toronto has impressive size, length, and athleticism on the perimeter. Scottie Barnes, Pascal Siakam, OG Anunoby, and Dennis Schroder provide fearsome defensive intensity. However, they struggle in the half-court offense as they rank dead-last in the NBA in points per possession in the half-court. Jordan Poole could help solve that problem.
While Poole can provide the scoring offensively, he can be hidden on the weakest opposing player on the defensive end. This could be a winning formula for the franchise trying to get back to the postseason.
Plus, the Raptors are not giving up too much to acquire Poole. Gary Trent Jr. is on an expiring contract and Chris Boucher is superfluous on their crowded frontcourt. Both players fit better on the Wizards than they do on the Raptors.
Boucher could provide important floor-spacing and rim protection to Washington. Trent Jr. is a valuable shooter, and the Wizards could further develop him after re-signing him to a longer deal. A trade like this would make the Wizards a deeper, more balanced team.