The NBA offseason is in full swing with multiple blockbuster trades already completed.
On Tuesday, the Washington Wizards got in on the fun by making a blockbuster move of their own shopping Jordan Poole, Saddiq Bey and the No. 40 overall pick to the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange for CJ McCollum, Kelly Olynyk and a 2027 second-round pick.
Following the deal, many wonder where things stand for the Wizards after acquiring a 33-year-old guard on an expiring $30.6 million deal.
While allowing the veterans contract to expire heading into next offseason certainly has it's benefits, there's another avenue to McCollum's future that may be even more beneficial than that.
Wizards could flip McCollum at trade deadline
The Wizards have made multiple attempts over the last year to acquire veteran talent with the focus of being able to flip them this offseason in efforts to land additional assets.
Khris Middleton joined the Wizards at the trade deadline in a deal that sent Kyle Kuzma to the Milwaukee Bucks. Originally, the move seemed like a head scratcher for Washington, but it seemed to make sense with the idea that the Wizards could offer the veteran forward a chance to rebuild his trade value and allow for them to deal him to a contending team this offseason.
Washington had the same thing in mind when they made the move to land Marcus Smart as well.
So far, early reports suggests the Wizards could have a hard time flipping Middleton and possibly Smart following their injury-riddled stint in D.C. to end last season.
However, they may not have the same issue with McCollum, who is still playing at an impressive level.
In 56 games for the Pelicans this past season, the Lehigh product averaged 21.1 points, 4.1 assists and 3.8 rebounds, while shooting 44.4% from field goal range and 37.3% from beyond the arc.
Not only is McCollum still producing at a high-level, but he's one of the most respected leaders in the league. For contending teams looking to bolster their backcourt whether it be this offseason or before the trade deadline next year, the 33-year-old guard could be a prime trade target.
If McCollum heads into next season as a member of the Wizards, Washington should absolutely be able to flip the former top 10 pick if he can stay healthy and prove that he has plenty left in the tank.